Electric Vehicle Ticketed for Loud Exhaust: A Case Study

In a notable incident in Stillwater, Minnesota, a Dodge Charger EV owner named Mike received a ticket for allegedly violating noise ordinances. While driving with a group of car enthusiasts, Mike was stopped by a state trooper after another vehicle in the group accelerated loudly from a stoplight. The officer claimed that Mike's car was "disturbing the peace," despite Mike's insistence that his electric vehicle (EV) does not have an exhaust system. The officer issued three citations: “loud muffler/loud exhaust,” “front and rear license plates required,” and “public nuisance—annoy/injure/endanger safety.”

InsideEVsThe DriveElectric Dodge Charger ticketed for loud ‘exhaust’Cop Gives Charger EV A Ticket For Loud Exhaust It Doesn't Have

The Dodge Charger EV is designed to produce artificial engine noises to appeal to traditional car enthusiasts. While it can generate loud sounds in Sport mode, Mike was using Auto mode to conserve battery, which minimizes these synthesized noises. This raises questions about the appropriateness of ticketing an EV for noise violations when it lacks a traditional exhaust system.

Electric Dodge Charger ticketed for loud ‘exhaust’

Mike, the Charger EV driver, has become a focal point in discussions about noise regulations and electric vehicles. The state trooper involved in the incident has not been publicly identified but played a crucial role in enforcing the noise ordinance, despite the unique characteristics of the vehicle in question.

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Critics argue that the enforcement of noise ordinances against EVs, particularly those designed to mimic traditional engine sounds, may be misguided. Many believe that ticketing a vehicle without a physical exhaust system is an overreach, especially when the noise in question was caused by another car. This incident highlights the complexities of modern vehicle regulations as municipalities increasingly crack down on noise pollution.

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Mike has expressed frustration over the ticketing process, stating that he has not yet paid the fine or been able to schedule a court appearance, as the case number is reportedly not in the court's system. He noted, “I have called the courthouse every week for the last 10 weeks trying to schedule the court date/appearance, and still nothing.” This delay raises concerns about the efficiency of the legal process in handling such cases.

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There is a discrepancy regarding the source of the noise that led to the ticket. While the officer claimed Mike's vehicle was "super loud," Mike maintains that the sound originated from another car in the group. This conflict underscores the challenges in accurately assessing noise violations in mixed vehicle environments.

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• “I looked to my left, and there was a state trooper across the street from me. He passed me and whipped a U-turn. Came up behind me as the light turned green and followed me into a gas station and lit me up. Initiated a traffic stop.” — Mike, Charger EV Owner

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• “He immediately told me my car’s exhaust was way too loud and was disturbing the peace.” — Mike, recounting the officer's statement

Electric Dodge Charger ticketed for loud ‘exhaust’

• “I’m not going to argue with you,” — State Trooper, responding to Mike's explanation about the EV's lack of an exhaust

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As Mike awaits a court date, the outcome of this case may have broader implications for how municipalities enforce noise regulations on electric vehicles. The incident serves as a potential precedent for future interactions between law enforcement and EV drivers, particularly regarding the interpretation of noise ordinances in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape.

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