Yes, I agree. Visit at any big German city on a Sunday. It is a semi-religious tradition to be quiet on Sundays (and national holidays). Even as a tourist, it was impressive! And, Germany also heavily regulates aftermarket parts for cars -- so there are almost no "rumblers" to be heard.
Tokyo is also amazingly quiet for its size and density. Just one block away from any major thoroughfare will be pleasantly quiet, but can have a lively high street with shopping, restaurants, bars, and cafes (called "sho-ten-gai").
A long time ago, I read a study about noise from high speed roads (freeways, expressways, auto-bahn, etc.) and the effect on people who live near them. They have (statistically significant) higher levels of stress, and all of the negative mental and physical effects that come with it. This is one of the major benefits from using special low-noise cement or asphalt, or trees / shrubs / barriers to reduce noise effects on people who live very close.
Finally, I'm excited for a future where more cars, trucks, and buses are electric. It will certainly make cities more quiet and livable.
> Finally, I'm excited for a future where more cars, trucks, and buses are electric. It will certainly make cities more quiet and livable.
What makes you think electric cars are not going to be modified? Have you ever unwound an electric motor to increase its performance and heard the noise it makes? It’s much louder. Have you heard the electric drag cars? They are also not very quiet.
Tokyo is also amazingly quiet for its size and density. Just one block away from any major thoroughfare will be pleasantly quiet, but can have a lively high street with shopping, restaurants, bars, and cafes (called "sho-ten-gai").
A long time ago, I read a study about noise from high speed roads (freeways, expressways, auto-bahn, etc.) and the effect on people who live near them. They have (statistically significant) higher levels of stress, and all of the negative mental and physical effects that come with it. This is one of the major benefits from using special low-noise cement or asphalt, or trees / shrubs / barriers to reduce noise effects on people who live very close.
Finally, I'm excited for a future where more cars, trucks, and buses are electric. It will certainly make cities more quiet and livable.