Posts tagged "hybrids"

As discussed in the previous post, the presence of hybrid cars is increasing on America's roadways. People may be trying to spend less money on gas or to do their part to contribute to a greener society or both, but an unintended consequence of these hybrids is that they pose a danger to pedestrians, especially blind people who rely on the noise cars make to avoid being hit. Hybrids operate mostly on electricity when moving at slower speeds and so they operate quietly.

Currently, HEVs are only a small percentage of cars on the road, but that number is likely to grow significantly in the coming years. In addition to popular hybrid models like the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape, several automakers have produced all-electric cars such as the Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Volt. In 2012, Ford, Toyota, Honda and Mitsubishi intend to produce all-electric car models. With more HEVs on the road, the problems associated with quiet cars are likely to increase.

Most would agree that the move toward greener and more fuel-efficient cars is good for all involved, including the auto industry, the consumer and the environment. However, studies show that the increased use of hybrid and electric cars is leading to one negative result - an increase in pedestrians injured by these silent cars.

When driven at lower speeds, hybrid and electric cars operate primarily on electricity and are virtually silent. Without the noise of an engine, pedestrians and cyclists fail to hear hybrid or electric cars and do not realize that the cars are approaching them.

According to a study conducted by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, pedestrians and cyclists are more likely to be injured by hybrid electric vehicles, or HEVs, when these vehicles are slowing down, making turns, backing up or entering or leaving a parking space. When HEVS are driving straight ahead, the pedestrian and cyclist accident statistics are similar to those of regular cars.