It is a common and logical assumption that the global transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) will naturally calm our loud city streets. However, this is not necessarily the case. Transportation remains the number one source of noise in urban areas, and we need to ensure that vehicles are not allowed to emit fake noises for the driver’s enjoyment.

Global vehicle standards are primarily developed in Geneva via the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). Over the past few years, major manufacturing groups have been quietly lobbying to ensure that tomorrow's EVs are just as loud as today's combustion vehicles.

We have found these points of concern:

• Manufacturing groups, including the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) and the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), are lobbying to maintain current allowable vehicle noise levels, which research shows are harmful to human health.

• There is a coordinated push to install exterior speakers on EVs to intentionally inflict unnecessary, artificial, branded sound onto anyone within hearing distance.

• While internal cabin audio is a personal choice, exterior vehicle acoustics must be strictly limited to essential pedestrian safety requirements to protect community health.

Vanity noise does not belong on the outside of a vehicle. We are keeping a close eye on these international policy developments to ensure that unnecessary artificial noise doesn't become a standard feature on EVs. By addressing this issue collaboratively with policymakers, we can secure a truly quiet future for transportation.

Your donations are invaluable to help us continue monitoring and influencing policy as we advocate for quieter vehicles and healthy, livable communities.