This exchange from an open public list: This is a real and recent exchange. I want folks to understand why this is to important. Yes, I can live with the "Bell the Hybrid" but it means the eyes and minds that should be looking for the real pedestrian killers are ignoring the problem for another 2-4 years. Bob Wilson
There's a reason why pedestrians have the right of way. There's a reason why the vehicle would be at fault if the pedestrian got hit. I have seen far more conventional vehicles flying out of parking garages than i have seen hybrids. I have seen far more reckless conventional vehicles than I have hybrids.
There is data that suggests drivers of some demographics are significantly safer than others. From what I've seen of our self-polls, today's Prius owners tend to be: better educated better off financially a little older technically sophisticated internet aware (opps, the problem of a self poll!) Bob Wilson
No it is not April 1st Toyota To Sell Approaching Vehicle Audible Alert System - Toyota Owners Club - Toyota Forum
And more links: [FONT=Verdana,Sans-Serif,Arial]Prius gets sound option to protect pedestrians[/FONT] Video Demonstration of the device
Darn! I should've patented my ideas first. I posted here asking Toyota to redirect the reverse beeps to OUTSIDE the car; and I was wondering what to install in place of those 2 ugly fog-lamp covers and I came up with the idea of installing engine-sound similating speakers / animal warning horns.
Instead of making silly whirring sounds they should make the Prius "TALK" to pedestrians in Bugs Bunny's voice like, "'Scuse me, pardon me, I'm sorry, coming this way, thank you, 'Scuse me, pardon me...." Hey, that's a good after market potential. Ask Toyota to make the sound downloadable like iTunes or cellphone ringtones. (more cha-ching!) Hmm, I'm afraid some may hack it into "GIT OTTA MY WAY, PUNK"
