Hybrid, electric cars more likely to strike pedestrians than fuel-powered cars, study reveals

Electric and hybrid vehicles are more likely to hit pedestrians compared to petrol or diesel vehicles, especially in urban areas, according to a study conducted by researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, the Guardian reported.

Data indicates that electric and hybrid cars are twice as likely to strike pedestrians, and three times more likely in cities, due to their quieter operation which makes them harder to hear.

Factors contributing to this include younger, less experienced drivers and the quieter nature of these vehicles.

The study highlights the need for measures like acoustic vehicle alerting systems to mitigate these risks as electric vehicle adoption increases.