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WATCH | Here's how a noisy electric car could save lives on our roads

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<i>Image: Deutsche Welle</i>
<i>Image: Deutsche Welle</i>

It may not be imminent, but in the not too distant future the combustion engine and the sweet burble of a straight-six or V8 engine will be no more.

Electric vehicles remain the priority for most automakers as they strive to build and contribute towards a greener, zero emissions future.

The sound of silence

While the principal of creating a cleaner future is a necessary change, there is a bit of a downside. EVs are so quiet they can be dangerous.

READ | Death of internal combustion: Electric cars with a range of 1 000km in the works

Cars of the electric kind produce nothing but a buzzing sound when in operation, making it virtually impossible for other road users and pedestrians to pick up acoustically.

To combat a scenario like that, the European Union (EU) required the fitment of an acoustic warning device in all EVs.

An audible solution

According to Busworld, since 1 July 2019 it is mandatory to build in an acoustic warning system in electric vehicles. The Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) replicates the sound of a normal combustion engine, operating at a decibel level of between 56 and 70dB.

From Jaguar's Safety Sounds for the Visually Impaired to BMW's i3 Sound Design, manufacturers are staying a step ahead to make the streets safer for those not able to hear.

Compiled by: Robin Classen

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