In addition to being more economical and ‘greener’ another aspect of hybrid and electric engine vehicles is that they are almost silent. Now, some experts warn, that this could provide a level of danger for pedestrians and cyclists who are used to the rumble of the internal combustion engine.
Also concerned is the US National Federation for the Blind, who have called out for quiet vehicles to emit an ongoing sound.
A new study, published in the Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, examined the different kinds of noises - engine, horn, hum, siren, whistle, and white noise - that could be added to make the vehicles safer.
Lotus has found one solution to the issue, they have introduced a ‘safe and sound’ mode to their quiet hybrid model. This emulates the sound of an internal combustion engine when the car is in electric mode.
Further research is being conducted in the US by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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Date Published: November 18, 2008
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