Universal escooter sounds are being examined in Britain as a part of an effort to cut back the variety of crashes with pedestrians.
Micromobility firm Dott mentioned folks, together with some who’re blind or partially sighted, will put on a digital actuality headset to immerse them into simulations involving escooters emitting three sounds.
They might be requested to establish when they’re first conscious of the escooter and supply suggestions on the suitability of the sounds.
The sounds have been developed by researchers at Britain’s University of Salford.
Amid an increase in critical accidents with escooter riders in lots of international locations, there are issues the nearly silent motors of escooters could make the contraptions harmful for pedestrians.
Tests of the sounds will happen in a laboratory in London, in partnership with Britain’s Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
They might be repeated in Italy, Sweden and Spain, earlier than trials happen on public roads.
The goal of the venture is to create a sound that might be universally emitted by escooters internationally with out contributing to noise air pollution.
Dr Antonio Torija Martinez, principal investigator on the University of Salford, mentioned: “We are testing a series of carefully designed escooter sounds to find the right balance between maximum vehicle noticeability and minimum noise pollution.
“Using virtual reality to create immersive and realistic scenarios in a safe and controlled laboratory environment will allow us to achieve robust results.
“By working closely with the RNIB and blind associations across Europe, we can ensure that the sound we develop is the best fit for their needs.”
RNIB head of inclusive design Robin Spinks mentioned it may be “terrifying” for blind or partially sighted folks when electrical automobiles are used “irresponsibly”.
Even in locations the place they’re banned, escooters are sometimes used on public roads and pavements.
Dott is among the many corporations which can be operating legalised trials of rental escooters on roads in dozens of cities and cities throughout England.
Dott chief govt Henri Moissinac mentioned: “Our vehicles are transforming cities by providing efficient transport which is free from both air and noise pollution.
“It’s important that our vehicles not only work for our users but are respectful to all other city residents.
“The development of an industry standard escooter sound, which can be detected by those that need it but without being intrusive, could greatly improve the experience for some of the most vulnerable road users.” – dpa
