Archive for June, 2011

Chicago Nissan news: Leaf to be outfitted with sound effects for pedestrians

Car shoppers these days are looking for all the safety, reliability, fuel economy, performance and general efficiency that they can get out of their vehicles. With changing technology, a lot of manufacturers have been focusing on eliminating engine sounds for a smoother, quieter ride. Sure, this makes us feel more comfortable behind the wheel – but could it be a safety issue?

Electric cars are storming the automotive industry at the moment as part of the effort to find alternative fuel sources, reduce emissions, and lower the total cost of ownership for vehicle owners. One of the problems (few though they are) facing manufacturers when it comes to electric cars is providing for the safety of pedestrians; the rev of an engine has become a staple of the roads, and quiet cars make it more difficult for pedestrians to hear oncoming dangers.

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