7.2.2013 New traffic noise law backed by EU

Noise limits for cars could be tightened to protect public health, under a draft law voted in the European Parliament on this week.

MEPs also recommended introducing labels to inform consumers about new cars' noise levels, whilst sound may have to be added to hybrid and electric vehicles to alert pedestrians of their otherwise silent presence.

Persistent exposure to high levels of traffic noise can prove physically draining, disrupt organ functions and contribute to cardiovascular and other diseases. Research by the European Environment Agency shows traffic exposes half of the EU's urban population to noise levels above 55 decibels (db).

The draft legislation proposes to phase in new limits six and eight years after the new rules come into force. The limit for standard cars would be reduced to 68 db from 74 db currently. More powerful vehicles would be allowed a margin of 2 to 6 extra decibels.

MEPs recognise that vehicle noise is also affected by the road surface, tyre noise and aerodynamics. Members also want new cars to be labelled on their noise performance to inform consumers. Similar labelling schemes already exist for fuel efficiency, tyre noise and CO2 emissions.

At the same time, MEPs are concerned that quiet electric and hybrid car engines can pose a threat to pedestrians and want compulsory requirements in future to add sound to these vehicles. The draft legislation points to a number of standards that must first be developed for such "Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS)".

The silence of driving a vehicle in electric mode is a major appealing factor for some users, but has also raised considerable concern over the last few years. Electric cars have been equipped with artificial sounds that mimic a combustion engine car in some countries, and many believe that this should be standard practice for vehicles running in all-electric mode.