The issue of electric and hybrid vehicles being difficult for the visually impaired to detect does indeed raise problems for engineers, similar to those raised by roundabouts. Both issues involve the need to balance different design considerations, including safety, accessibility, and sustainability.
One similarity between the problems is that both involve designing for the needs of vulnerable road users, such as the visually impaired or pedestrians. In the case of roundabouts, engineers must consider factors such as crosswalk placement, pedestrian signals, and traffic speeds to ensure that the roundabout is safe and accessible for all users. Similarly, in the case of electric and hybrid vehicles, engineers must consider strategies for making these vehicles more detectable to visually impaired pedestrians, such as adding noise-making devices or using special road markings.
However, there are also some differences between the problems. With roundabouts, the focus is on designing a physical infrastructure that is safe and accessible for all users. With electric and hybrid vehicles, the focus is on designing a vehicle that is both fuel-efficient and safe for all users, including pedestrians. This requires a different set of design considerations and trade-offs.
Another difference is that the problem of electric and hybrid vehicles being difficult to detect is a relatively new issue, while roundabouts have been in use for many years. As a result, the solutions to the problems may require different approaches and may involve more experimentation and testing with new technologies.
Overall, both the issues of roundabouts and electric/hybrid vehicles highlight the need for engineers to consider the needs of all users when designing transportation infrastructure and vehicles. By balancing safety, accessibility, and sustainability, engineers can create solutions that meet the needs of a diverse range of users and help create more inclusive and sustainable communities.