Toyota Uruguay wants humming electric cars to help pedestrians — and plants

Toyota Uruguay wants humming electric cars to help pedestrians — and plants

The short version:

– The US and Europe will require electric and hybrid vehicles to make noise for pedestrians’ safety

– Automakers are considering options of what the sound should be

– Toyota Uruguay has proposed creating a sound that pedestrians hear, but also emits a frequency that encourages plant growth

– Deemed “the Hy Project” would sound like a “hum”

This idea aims to become the opposite of “noise pollution” — where the sound has purpose and gives back to the environment. It’s a great thought, as it is important for pedestrians to know when vehicles are coming (which is a disadvantage of a quiet car). However, if the sound also has a lasting benefit for wildlife and plants, there is little to complain about — it’s simply a step forward for the industry.