The waterproof external speakers needed for compliance are expected to cost $40M annually. That’s small change compared to potential lawsuits for pedestrian deaths.
I can think of alternative uses for the external speakers, with re-wiring to use them as loud-speakers to alert bad drivers to their bad behavior. That would be money well spent ;)
I agree it’s small change compared to lawsuits and deaths, but let’s not kid ourselves here – the car manufacturers will only look at the bottom line, which looks promising considering “…[t]he benefits of the reduced injuries are estimated at $250 million to $320 million annually.” (emphasis added)
Two or three lawsuit verdicts alone would cover or exceed the $40M annually. I question the derivation of the $250M – $350M estimate given. And, external loudspeakers could have increased value to drivers if they were re-wired to be used as a PA system by the driver. Examples: “Dear reckless driver; GFY!” or “Dear Snowflake; turn off your phone and watch where you’re walking/ driving when approaching an intersection!”.
I wonder what sound they will eventually land on. Engine sound design will become a much-coveted job for audiophiles and Bose will become a leader in the engine-component industry. Heady times!
….but not too loud! …or unusual. That would also be a violation in Texas (only as to exhaust noise). I have seen (and heard) some cars around town that have external speakers blaring music in addition to the trunk rattling bass. I think a blaring elephant trumpet or a growling lion would be awesome.
The waterproof external speakers needed for compliance are expected to cost $40M annually. That’s small change compared to potential lawsuits for pedestrian deaths.
I can think of alternative uses for the external speakers, with re-wiring to use them as loud-speakers to alert bad drivers to their bad behavior. That would be money well spent ;)
I agree it’s small change compared to lawsuits and deaths, but let’s not kid ourselves here – the car manufacturers will only look at the bottom line, which looks promising considering “…[t]he benefits of the reduced injuries are estimated at $250 million to $320 million annually.” (emphasis added)
I’m an idiot — the $250M-$350M annual benefit will not be seen by the car manufacturers. I misread the article before I posted my first comment
Two or three lawsuit verdicts alone would cover or exceed the $40M annually. I question the derivation of the $250M – $350M estimate given. And, external loudspeakers could have increased value to drivers if they were re-wired to be used as a PA system by the driver. Examples: “Dear reckless driver; GFY!” or “Dear Snowflake; turn off your phone and watch where you’re walking/ driving when approaching an intersection!”.
I wonder what sound they will eventually land on. Engine sound design will become a much-coveted job for audiophiles and Bose will become a leader in the engine-component industry. Heady times!
Aaa-ooo-ga! Aaa-ooo-ga! (original horns on early 20th century Fords, Edsels, Packards, …)
or, …’more cowbell’!
Yogi: that was awesome…
Mine would constantly be playing AC/DC, GnR, or Iron Maiden (with THE Bruce Dickinson).
I’d like to see the car industry adopt the “Move” song by Ludacris in their the audio regulation for low speed pedestrian avoidance.
Of the injuries and deaths of pedestrians and cyclists, how many of them had ear buds in and couldn’t hear a jet plane if they were next to one?
I rather like the Disney/Fred MacMurray solution.
….but not too loud! …or unusual. That would also be a violation in Texas (only as to exhaust noise). I have seen (and heard) some cars around town that have external speakers blaring music in addition to the trunk rattling bass. I think a blaring elephant trumpet or a growling lion would be awesome.