A Minnesota motorist faced citations in downtown Stillwater earlier this year while driving a 2025 Dodge Daytona electric vehicle. The car features an external sound system designed to mimic traditional muscle car sounds. Mike, the driver, and his car club friends had stopped at a traffic light when he reported making eye contact with a Minnesota State Patrol trooper who subsequently pulled him over.
Mike explained to the officer that the car was equipped with a “fratzonic chambered sound mechanism,” which allows it to produce a rev-like sound while in park. Despite his explanation, the trooper issued citations for noise violations. Mike intends to contest the ticket in court, though as of June, the citation had not yet appeared in the Washington County court system. A video of the encounter has gone viral online, garnering significant attention.
Mike has previously received citations for loud mufflers while driving gasoline-powered vehicles. WCCO has reached out to the Minnesota State Patrol for comment.
- Why it matters: This incident highlights the ongoing debate regarding noise regulations for electric vehicles and the implications for drivers seeking to mimic traditional vehicle sounds.
- This case may influence future legislation regarding noise standards for electric vehicles, as courts assess the legitimacy of such citations.
- The latest: Mike is still awaiting a court date, which has yet to be scheduled, leaving the outcome of the citation unresolved.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/electric-vehicle-viral-video-stillwater-minnesota-state-trooper/
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/electric-vehicle-viral-video-stillwater-minnesota-state-trooper/