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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
World
Alex Hern Technology editor

Scientists creating universal e-scooter sound to help pedestrians detect them

Woman on e-scooter
Researchers will explore the impact of different tones on users and the public across Europe, working with international blind associations. Photograph: PR image

A universal sound for e-scooters is being developed by scientists at the University of Salford working with the Royal National Institute for Blind People (RNIB) to help pedestrians hear the oncoming vehicles.

The silent motors of e-scooters can be dangerous for people who expect to be able to hear hazards approaching on roads and pavements, and the researchers have gained funding to explore a range of audible motor sounds to find one which is sufficiently noticeable to help safety, while being pleasant for those around, and avoiding unnecessary urban noise pollution.

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