ONE of the world's quietest cars will use a fake engine noise to help save
lives.

Toyota has fitted its petrol-electric Prius, the world's best-selling
hybrid, with a speaker that emits an artificial sound to help warn
pedestrians of its approach.

General Motors, Nissan and Lotus are among other car makers set to follow
with similar pedestrian-alert systems as the motor industry responds to
criticism that hybrids such as the Prius endanger lives, particularly those
of the blind.

Some safety groups have called hybrids silent killers, and research has
shown hybrids are more likely to be involved in low-speed accidents with
pedestrians because of their ability to run in virtual silence on battery
power alone with the petrol engine switched off.

Toyota's Approaching Vehicle Audible System device is mounted inside the
Prius's front bumper and makes an exaggerated, synthesised sound of an
electric motor up to speeds of about 25 km/h. The company says the system,
which costs about $170 in Japan, is under consideration for Australia.

Such warning tones are expected to become mandatory for hybrids and electric
vehicles in the United States.

 



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