NO longer will electric vehicles be able to glide by silently.
From the beginning of July, electric vehicles (EVs) must make an audible sound below 12mph (20km/h).
The reason for this is to protect vulnerable road users – particularly those with visual impairment.
So now all manufacturers must install a system in new types of quiet electric and hybrid electric vehicles.
These sound generators must produce a specified level of noise when they are reversing or travelling at around 12mph. The sound generated will be similar to that made by a conventional engine and can be temporarily deactivated by the driver if judged necessary.
Michael Ellis, Roads Minister, said:
“The government wants the benefits of green transport to be felt by everyone, and understands the concerns of the visually impaired about the possible hazards posed by quiet electric vehicles.
“This new requirement will give pedestrians added confidence when crossing the road.”
The regulation will apply to all new types of ‘quiet’ electric and hybrid vehicles from July 01, 2019, and to all new quiet electric and hybrid vehicles registered from July 2021.
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