How EVs Are Transforming Urban Soundscapes

Safety Guidelines and Regulations for Low-Speed EVs

The quiet operation of EVs has raised pedestrian safety concerns, particularly in urban environments where noise serves as an essential alert. To address this, authorities have introduced guidelines and regulations requiring EVs to emit artificial sounds of at least 56 dB at speeds below 20 km/h (12 mph). These Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) are designed to warn pedestrians and cyclists of an EV's presence. The specific sounds vary by manufacturer, with some systems producing continuous tones and others emitting intermittent chirps or beeps[4].

Impact of Noise Reduction on Human Health and Well-being in Urban Areas

The harmful effects of urban noise pollution are far-reaching, affecting sleep, mental health, cardiovascular health, and cognitive development. Reducing noise pollution through the adoption of EVs offers tangible health benefits, particularly in urban areas where noise levels often exceed recommended thresholds[5].

1. Better Sleep - The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends noise levels below 40 dB to ensure restful sleep. Traditional ICE vehicles frequently exceed this threshold, disrupting sleep and increasing the risks of cardiovascular diseases. By operating quietly, EVs can help prevent noise from disrupting sleep, particularly in urban residential areas.[6].
2. Reduced Stress and Improved Mental Health - Chronic exposure to noise pollution has been linked to heightened stress and anxiety levels. Studies in Beijing revealed a direct correlation between perceived noise pollution and poorer mental health outcomes[7].  By reducing urban noise, EVs help prevent disturbances that can contribute to psychological distress.
3. Cardiovascular Health Benefits - Prolonged exposure to road traffic noise has been linked to hypertension and heart disease. Even moderate noise levels increase stress hormones, leading to long-term cardiovascular damage[8]. The quieter operation of EVs mitigates these effects.
4. Enhanced Cognitive Performance in Children - Noise pollution impacts children’s ability to concentrate, learn, and perform academically. Evidence shows that reducing noise exposure in schools leads to better cognitive outcomes[9].
5. Lower Mortality Risks – According to the European Environment Agency[10], excessive urban noise contributes to approximately 12,000 premature deaths annually in Europe. The transition to EVs helps reduce traffic noise and plays a crucial role in enhancing overall public health.

Impact of Noise Reduction on Wildlife

Noise pollution also profoundly affects wildlife, particularly birds that rely on sound for communication and navigation. The research found that noise-exposed areas experienced a 38% reduction in bird abundance and a 31% decline in species richness[11]. These changes illustrate how noise pollution forces birds to avoid certain habitats, which can affect their survival and reproduction.

The effects of noise extend beyond birds to entire ecosystems. Reduced bird presence in noisy areas impacts predator-prey relationships, often leading to the overpopulation of insects like grasshoppers and imbalances in food webs. In quieter areas adjacent to noisy zones, higher bird activity can increase predation, further disrupting ecological stability[12].           

By reducing urban noise, EVs help prevent disturbances that would otherwise disrupt bird populations. Restoring natural soundscapes helps maintain biodiversity, stabilize food chains, and ensure a balanced environment for wildlife and humans.

GEODIS's Initiatives in Introducing Electric Vehicles

At GEODIS, we take various initiatives to integrate EVs into our operations, driven by our commitment to sustainable logistics. Recognizing the environmental benefits of EVs, particularly in reducing noise and air pollution, we have launched strategic projects to accelerate the transition to low-impact transportation.

Here are some key projects driving the transformation:

The GEODIS and Renault Trucks Oxygen Project

In collaboration with Renault Trucks, we have developed and tested Oxygen, a cutting-edge 16-tonne electric truck designed for urban deliveries. The truck incorporates advanced technologies, such as integrated screens, a connected driver station, and artificial intelligence, to enhance safety and operational efficiency in city centers.

The Oxygen truck is being trialed in Paris and Lyon to evaluate its performance in real-world conditions. These trials aim to assess the truck's capabilities, gather driver feedback, and refine its features.