Desde «New Scientist Technology Blog» le dan vueltas al problema que supone el silencioso discurrir de los vehículos híbridos. Curiosa paradoja…

«Hear that? Thought not. It’s a hybrid car stealing through traffic using its electric motor. And if you were blind, it could hit you before you knew it was there.

Emissions aside, hybrid and electric cars can be a real danger to pedestrians. Because they can be so quiet, people don’t hear them coming. And if you are visually impaired, that is a real danger.

That’s why the National Federation of the Blind in the US wants a minimum noise standard to be set. The Association of International Auto Manufacturers and the Society of Automotive Engineers are also looking into the idea.

A minimum noise standard is a good suggestion. But what noise should they make?

It doesn’t need to be loud. But it does need to be distinctive. The sound of a car engine would be most effective, because people can react appropriately without a second thought.

But we could get used to a different sound. How about a futuristic electric hum, like a hovercar might make in a sci-fi movie? Or should it be something completely new. One of my colleagues thinks they should make a noise like wasps – a clear signal to get out the way.

Another alternative would be to try and develop a unique sound to hybrids, one that encapsulates their non-threatening nature, low carbon emissions and position at the cutting edge all at once. After designing the instantly recognisable Windows 95 sound, perhaps Brian Eno could help.

Or should it be left to the user? Hybrids could come with a limited selection of ‘car tones’ with the option of adding more».

by: Tom Simonite