[nagdu] Noise requirements proposed for hybrid and electric vehicles

[Ginger Kutsch]

Noise requirements proposed for hybrid and electric vehicles

mcall.com

By David Undercoffler

January 8, 2013

Source:
http://www.mcall.com/business/la-fi-hy-autos-dot-noise-rules-hybrid-electric
-vehicles-20130108,0,7600498,print.story

 

Electric vehicles and hybrids are quiet - a little too quiet for the U.S.
Department of Transportation.

 

The agency on Monday announced proposals for minimum sound requirements on
hybrid and electric vehicles. Without an internal combustion engine running,

many vehicles can operate under full or partial electric power with little
to no sound to warn pedestrians or cyclists, particularly the visually
impaired.

 

"This proposal will help keep everyone using our nation's streets and
roadways safe, whether they are motorists, bicyclists or pedestrians," U.S.
Transportation

Secretary Ray LaHood said in a statement.

 

The Department of Transportation estimates the proposed changes to hybrid
and electric vehicles would result in 2,800 fewer injuries to pedestrians
and

cyclists for every model year that such a system is required.

 

The proposed noise would be necessary only at speeds under 18 miles per
hour, the agency said. At 18 mph and above, vehicles naturally make enough
sound

to be detected.

 

Automakers would have a range of choices for car noises, the agency said.
The agency posted 14 samples of sounds at 

http://www.nhtsa.gov/SampleSounds.

 

Some hybrids and electric vehicles already make noise to warn pedestrians of
their presence. The Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid sends out an electronic whir

from faux exhaust pipes at speeds of up to 25 mph. A Department of
Transportation spokesman says the Karma would not need to alter its sound to
meet the

suggested requirements.

 

The proposal has 60 days for the public to comment and offer changes.