The Canadian Minister of Transport Wants Electrified Vehicles to Make Noise

• A minimum level of noise will be mandated.

• The new requirement came into effect on the 21^st of December.

Most hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles already possess a device that produces some type of noise when they are travelling at a low rate of speed. The Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, will amend the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations to mandate minimum levels of noise from hybrid and electric vehicles.

The goal behind the change is simple: Safety. As we all know, electric motors produce very little sound at low speeds, or any speed compared to an internal combustion engine. Most hybrids, Toyota vehicles, for example, produce a distinct and audible noise at lower speeds. Electric vehicles too, in general, make some form of noise when in motion, especially when reversing.

Starting on December 21^st, 2022, all electrified vehicles sold new in Canada will need to have low-speed sound emitters. There are no specific requirements as to the type of sound so long as the volume and pitch allow other road users to hear something if a vehicle is speeding up or slowing down.