The European Commission proposed today to reduce noise produced by cars, vans, buses, coaches, light and heavy trucks.

Noise limit values will be lowered in two steps of each 2 dB(A) for passenger cars, vans, buses and coaches. For trucks the reduction would be 1 dB(A) in the first step and 2 dB(A) in the second step. The first step is to apply two years after the publication of the text once approved by the European Parliament and Member States and the second step is foreseen three years thereafter.

"Altogether, these measures will reduce vehicle noise nuisance by some 25%," the commission said.

In addition, the Commission intends to introduce a new and more reliable test method to measure sound emissions.

The commission has also proposed that electric and hybrid electric vehicles can be fitted optionally with sound generating devices which would make these cars safer.

Noise emissions limits have not changed since 1996 despite increasing traffic.

Vice-President Antonio Tajani, responsible for Industry and Entrepreneurship said: "Noise emissions due to road traffic, from which our citizens are suffering, will be significantly reduced. Our proposal will lead to quieter motor vehicles on our roads and a healthier environment. Our proposal will also make international rules for industry clearer, so it will be easier for European manufacturers to sell cars outside the EU".

More information at:

http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/automotive/environment/noise/index_en.htm

The European Commission's automotive policy:

http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/automotive/index_en.htm