Prius targeted: Maryland lawmakers want "minimum" vehicle sound levels

While the Toyota Prius and other hybrids may be the next best thing to riding a Vespa for the environment, one group has been concerned about their lack of noise they produce. Members of the National Federation of the Blind are voicing their concerns to a Maryland legislative committee today regarding the safety of hybrid vehicles while running in all-electric mode. It's been reported over the last couple of years that individuals who rely on sound to safely interpret and navigate their surroundings are at risk when navigating congested urban environments populated by hybrids. The legislative task force will study the effects of a vehicle's noise levels on pedestrian safety and make a recommendation by the end of the year. If this initiative gets traction, we don't think a Prius will start singing like the Ferrari F430 anytime soon... but maybe they could give it a nice growl like the Audi R8?

REPORT: Alan Mulally wants an FG Falcon  

REPORT: Alan Mulally wants an FG Falcon

But is he getting one for himself? One could certainly infer that's the case based on this GoAuto article , which reports that the Ford CEO was so blown away by...

 

Leaked: Volkswagen Passat R36  

Leaked: Volkswagen Passat R36

The automotive industry must not be very well sealed, as photos and information has been leaked about Volkswagens new Passat R36. Whats more or less a North Ame...

 

A Fuel Cell Explorer; Now Thats Progress.  

A Fuel Cell Explorer; Now Thats Progress.

The LA Auto Show, which, is going to be happening very shortly, will play host to a whole bunch of environmentally-friendly debuts, a couple of which are going ...

 

Sebring Convertibles Hard Top Roof is Official  

Sebring Convertibles Hard Top Roof is Official

Heres the moment youve (sort of) been waiting for: Chryslers drop-top Sebring. Known by all as the convertible of choice by rental companies, its been redesigne...

 

It's VW's turn: here comes another 4-door coupe  

Its VWs turn: here comes another 4-door coupe

The CLS has begun a trend that simply will not quit, with Volkswagen being the latest to join the express train to a 4-door-coupe. The 4DC trend is not a bad th...

 

2003 Buick Regal in Vancouver, Washington  

2003 Buick Regal in Vancouver, Washington

Call for SPECIAL VIP INTERNET DISCOUNT PRICING! This car comes with a warranty, and a brilliant 'customers for life' package which offers tires and car washes f...

 

Sponsored links

New Cars

Production of Saturn Aura Green Line (Hybrid) Underway  

Production of Saturn Aura Green Line (Hybrid) Underway

Someone at General Motors is eager about going ahead with the Aura,...

 

Yeah, It's a Turbine... Jay Leno's New EcoJet Concept  

Yeah, Its a Turbine... Jay Lenos New EcoJet Concept

I really wish I was in Jay Lenos shoes, not only is the man famous and rich,...

 

BMW M5 Finally Gets Manual Gearbox  

BMW M5 Finally Gets Manual Gearbox

After two very long years of listening to complaining, BMW will begin offering its ultra-super-duper-high-performance sedan, the M5, with a proper six-speed man...

 

So Pretty It Hurts: Aston V8 Vantage Convertible  

So Pretty It Hurts: Aston V8 Vantage Convertible

If this isnt a beautiful car, then I dont know what is. Aston Martin, whos really ramping up for Casino Royale this Friday, has also shown pictures of the V8 Va...

 

Top Shows

REPORT: Alan Mulally wan

REPORT: Alan Mulally wants an FG Falcon

But is he getting one for himself? One could certainly infer that's the case based on this GoAuto article , which reports that the Ford CEO was so blown away by...

Leaked: Volkswagen Passa

Leaked: Volkswagen Passat R36

The automotive industry must not be very well sealed, as photos and information has been leaked about Volkswagens new Passat R36. Whats more or less a North Ame...

A Fuel Cell Explorer; No

A Fuel Cell Explorer; Now Thats Progress.

The LA Auto Show, which, is going to be happening very shortly, will play host to a whole bunch of environmentally-friendly debuts, a couple of which are going ...

Sponsored links

Auto Articles

LATEST FEATURES