92003E0566

WRITTEN QUESTION E-0566/03

by Luciano Caveri (ELDR) to the Commission

(27 February 2003)

Subject: Problems relating to audible warning devices

Directive 70/388/EEC(1) indicates minimum values for type approval of audible warning devices for motor vehicles, ruling out the possibility of a mechanism for reducing the volume of the horn to avoid environmental pollution (e.g. while driving slowly or at night) or increasing the volume in specific circumstances (e.g. while driving at high speeds). However, Directive 93/30/EEC(2) requires the audible warning devices on less powerful motorcycles and mopeds to have a lower sound level and this frequently causes accidents between mopeds and pedestrians, as is clearly illustrated by accident statistics.

As regards the first point, does the Commission not consider that an amendment should be proposed to the directive to authorise intelligent audible warning devices which will adjust the sound level according to circumstances? As for the second point, should the sound levels of audible warning devices for two- or three-wheel motor vehicles not be the same as those authorised for more powerful motorcycles?

(1) OJ L 176, 10.8.1970, p. 12.

(2) OJ L 188, 29.7.1993, p. 11.

Answer given by Mr Liikanen on behalf of the Commission

(8 April 2003)

In principle the Commission is not opposed to the concept of an intelligent audible warning device. However, as audible warning devices are intended to warn other road users in the proximity of the vehicle of its presence or approach, very careful consideration would need to be given to justifying the use of lower or higher levels of volume, than those that are currently prescribed in Council Directive 70/388/EEC of 27 July 1970 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to audible warning devices for motor vehicles.

As regards the audible warning devices required to be fitted to motorcycles and mopeds, the Commission has had no indication that the lower level of sound permitted for audible warning devices fitted to mopeds and low-powered motorcycles might not be heard by pedestrians and lead to accidents. Maximum and minimum sound levels applicable for the different types of two-wheeled motor vehicles differ, but the permitted ranges for each of these types of vehicle overlap. Therefore, it is possible for an audible warning device to be produced that could be fitted for all types of two-wheeled motor vehicles.

If stakeholders were to find that the use of audible warning devices of variable sound level would be a useful contribution to road safety and environmental protection the Commission would consider bringing forward proposals to amend the provisions.