There are over 2 Million Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) on the world's roads today. As people become accustomed to this new technology this number is sure to grow.
However, the hybrid cars pose a silent threat to pedestrians.
The electric engine in these vehicles can be so quiet that pedestrians are unaware of the car's approach, its start up, or when it's idling. When idling or at low speeds, the hybrid car typically operates on battery power, which is nearly inaudible in the cacophony of everyday traffic. They are often silent at locations where drivers are most likely to tangle with pedestrians and bicyclists; crosswalks, turning lanes and parking lots.
A hybrid emits 3dB (decibels) of noise when moving at low speeds and operating exclusively on battery power, a level hard to pick up with the human ear.
Our patent-pending technology provides a solution for quiet cars (click on the movie image for a demo).
Testing our sound simulation technology on bicycles would allow us to fine-tune a solution for hybrid, electric, fuel cell and other quiet vehicles.
If you are a Hybrid car driver, please share your experience with us. Your feedback is highly appreciated.
For more info on quiet cars see links below.
National Federation of the Blind. Committee on Automobile and Pedestrian Safety, Quiet Cars
New bill introduced to Congress protecting the Blind from silent cars
The Maryland state bill may require hybrid cars to emit some sound
Global TV: Pedestrian was struck by Prius (Global BC Newscast->Jan 19->@4:45)
CNN: Hybrid cars criticized for being too quiet
The Wall Street Journal: Blind Pedestrians
Say Quiet Hybrids
Pose Safety Threat
CBC News: Blind pedestrians protest quiet hybrid cars
Silence of hybrid vehicles concerns blind pedestrians
Beware of Hybrid Vehicles in Parking Lots
Silent hybrid and electric vehicles should always make a noticeable sound
Hybrid cars, too quiet to be free from blind spot
PERSPECTIVES AND ISSUES ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE QUIET HYBRID AUTOMOBILE
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