Electric Vehicles: The Silent Speed Challenge

Amidst the global push for sustainable transportation, electric vehicles have risen to prominence, praised for their reduced carbon emissions and positioning them as a more environmentally conscious choice for the future. However, beneath their innovative design lies a challenge that demands attention – their near-silent operation. While the quietness of EVs has raised concerns about pedestrian safety, another often overlooked issue is the effect of silent speed on driving behaviour and road safety.

Unlike traditional combustion engine vehicles, EVs operate almost silently, lacking the inherent noise generated by exhaust systems. This unique characteristic has several implications, particularly when it comes to speed and safety.

Research indicates that electric cars have a 40% higher likelihood of striking a pedestrian than a conventional vehicle [1]. These findings point to driver behaviour as a key factor. The silent, instantaneous torque delivery in EVs can tempt some drivers to accelerate rapidly, posing a danger even without exceeding speed limits. This becomes particularly concerning in urban areas with more traffic and pedestrians, emphasising the need to address rapid acceleration and speed limit adherence for enhanced road safety.

Operating EVs at high speeds can also significantly increase the risk of accidents and reduce a driver's ability to react quickly to unexpected obstacles. Even at low speeds, the near silence poses a heightened challenge for vulnerable road users, especially at junctions and car parks. This is especially true for those with visual impairments who rely heavily on auditory cues for safe navigation. 

In terms of addressing the silent operation of EVs, as of 1 July 2019, the Department of Transport implemented regulations requiring all manufacturers to install Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) in new types of electric and hybrid EVs [2]. This system generates sound while the vehicle reverses or runs below 20 km/h (12mph). The absence of sufficient data on the outcomes of AVAS regulations highlights the critical need for continuous research and assessment. This is vital to understand this technology's real safety benefits and overall impact on road safety.

Moreover, driving at higher speeds in electric vehicles accelerates the depletion of the battery and poses additional safety risks. When an EV runs out of battery power, it can become a hazard at the side of the road, increasing the likelihood of crashes and causing distractions for other road users. Therefore, emphasising eco-friendly driving practices extends the EV range and enhances road safety. Maintaining a steady speed, minimising sudden acceleration and deceleration, and using regenerative braking are all environmentally conscious behaviours and impactful measures in reducing the potential risks associated with EV breakdown on the road.

Additionally, the transition in driver behaviours from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs brings about notable implications for road speed and safety. Challenges emerge, particularly for drivers accustomed to the familiar auditory cues and driving dynamics of traditional vehicles. The near-silent operation of EVs further accentuates these challenges. Whether transitioning or newly licenced, drivers need education on the nuanced differences. In this context, comprehensive training programs and awareness campaigns are crucial for ensuring a smoother transition and enhancing road safety.

Similarly, amid the transition to EVs, there is a pressing need to re-evaluate the approach to educating learner drivers. Beyond traditional driving skills, it is increasingly vital to integrate targeted training on electric vehicle operation and safety features into driving tests. This includes comprehending the silent operation of EVs, adopting eco-friendly driving practices, and mastering efficient use of battery power and charging techniques [3]. As learners embark on driving tests in EVs, an added layer of awareness toward pedestrians becomes imperative. The quiet operation of EVs underscores the importance of heightened vigilance and anticipation of additional hazards for learner drivers during their tests.

Lastly, the mandate for 20 mph zones in urban areas could have a positive impact. These zones serve a dual purpose – not only do they enhance pedestrian safety but also foster an environment that deters speeding, perhaps a crucial consideration as drivers transition to and become familiar with electric vehicles. The overreaching goal is to strike a balance between the thrill of velocity and the responsibility of safeguarding lives on our roads, paving the way for a safer and more sustainable future for all road users.

For more information about Road Safety Week 2023, please visit our Road Safety Week page.

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Related Article : The 20 mph Zone Debate

References

[1] Doward, J (2018) New law to tackle electric cars’ silent menace to pedestrians. The Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/may/06/new-law-combats-silent-menace-electric-cars 

[2] Department for Transport (2019) New noise systems to stop ‘silent’ electric cars and improve safety. GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-noise-systems-to-stop-silent-electric-cars-and-improve-safety

[3] Boratyn, K (2023) DVSA urged to change driving tests to accommodate electric cars. Express.co.uk. Available at: https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/cars/1753599/electric-cars-driving-test-changes-dvla