California To Examine Hybrid Noise Issue

The State of California has assembled a commission to study the issue of hybrid noise... or lack thereof. The committee will look for ways to improve the audible detectability of the vehicles that can operate in a virtually soundless mode. Oncoming hybrid cars do not make enough noise to warn visually impaired or distracted pedestrians that the vehicle is approaching.

Lotus recently unveiled its "Safe and Sound" technology for its hybrid vehicles, which provides a quiet cabin ride for passengers, and imitates the sound of a combustion engine for pedestrians. The system consists of speakers and microphones that measure and cancel interior sound, while broadcasting canned noise on the outside of the vehicle. The Lotus system also contains an in-exhaust speaker that can cancel noise almost entirely or change the sound to make the exterior noise more pleasing.

The National Federation For The Blind has also suggested that the government should require hybrid manufacturers to include audible warning systems of some type to assist visually impaired pedestrians identify the speed and direction of oncoming vehicles. The State of Maryland has also pledged to examine the issue to determine whether minimum noise requirements for moving vehicles should be established.