Study Reveals Increased Risk to Pedestrians from Silent Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

Electric and hybrid vehicles are often praised for their eco-friendly benefits, but a new study has shed light on the real-world risks they pose to pedestrians. Researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) found that pedestrians are twice as likely to be hit by an electric or hybrid-electric car compared to a petrol or diesel car.

The study analyzed data from pedestrian collisions with cars or taxis in Great Britain between 2013 and 2017. Out of the 96,285 pedestrians who were hit by a vehicle, 74 percent were hit by a petrol or diesel vehicle, while 2 percent were hit by an electric or hybrid-electric vehicle. The study also found that pedestrian collisions with electric or hybrid-electric vehicles were on average twice as likely, especially in urban environments.

One of the main reasons for the increased risk is the quiet nature of electric cars. Unlike traditional vehicles, electric cars do not emit the same level of noise, making it difficult for pedestrians to hear them approaching. This lack of auditory cues can lead to accidents as pedestrians may not have enough time to react and avoid a collision.

In response to these findings, the EU introduced new regulations in July 2019 requiring new models of electric cars to emit a sound to alert pedestrians. The UK government also mandated that manufacturers fit acoustic sound systems to new electric vehicles to prevent them from being too silent. Despite these regulations, there are still hundreds of thousands of electric cars on the road without noise-emitting devices.

The study’s lead author, Phil Edwards, emphasized the need for public information campaigns and new technologies like autonomous emergency braking to improve pedestrian safety around electric vehicles. As electric cars continue to replace petrol and diesel vehicles on the road, ensuring the safety of pedestrians must be a top priority.

In conclusion, while electric and hybrid vehicles offer many environmental benefits, it is crucial to address the safety concerns they pose to pedestrians. By raising awareness, implementing new technologies, and adhering to noise regulations, we can make our roads safer for everyone.