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Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FMVSS 141)

Dec 30, 2016

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On December 15, 2016 NHTSA published a notice in the Federal Register finalizing requirements for FMVSS 141, Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid and Electric Vehicles. The new standard responds to Congress' mandate in the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act that hybrid and electric vehicles meet minimum sound requirements to provide an audible alert for blind and visually-impaired pedestrians.

All hybrid and electric light vehicles with four wheels and a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less will be required to make audible noise when traveling in reverse or forward at speeds up to 30 kilometers per hour. At higher speeds, the sound alert is not required because other factors, such as tire and wind noise, provide adequate audible warning to pedestrians.

Per the final rule, manufacturers have until Sept. 1, 2019, to equip all new hybrid and electric vehicles with sounds that meet the new federal safety standard. Half of new hybrid and electric vehicles must be in compliance one year before the final deadline.

Petitions for reconsideration must be received no later than Jan. 30, 2017.

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