Law & Order

Feds Propose Minimum Sound Level for Electric Cars, Hybrids

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a proposed rule that will require hybrid and electric vehicles make a minimum level of sound in order to alert pedestrians and bicyclists of their presence. The automakers would have a wide selection of choices when creating a sound. The sound would need to be detectable over a range of street noises and other background sounds when the vehicle is moving under 18 miles per hour. At 18 mph and above, the vehicle should produce sufficient sound on its own to be heard. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.