Amazon delivery fleet adopts white-noise reverse alarms that cut noise pollution for cities

Published on Nov 23, 2025 at 2:11 PM (UTC+4)
by Henry Kelsall

Last updated on Nov 21, 2025 at 4:12 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones

The Amazon delivery fleet has adopted a white-noise reverse alarm in an attempt to cut down on noise pollution.

Large delivery trucks and vehicles often emit a noise when reversing, to alert pedestrians and other drivers that they are backing up towards or away from you.

Usually, that comes from a relatively loud beeping noise, with Amazon vehicles using the same sound that trucks, forklifts, and other large vehicles use.

However, a new type of noise is being emitted from the retail giant’s vehicles, and it might be a little more irritating than the standard beep.

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The new Amazon delivery fleet white-noise reverse alarms

Amazon has begun to use a new type of reversing alarm on its fleet of delivery vehicles.

These are white-noise alarms that produce an almost grinding-like sound as a vehicle reverses.

Ironically, you can also buy white-noise reversing alarms from Amazon if you fancy having one in your car.

There are some interesting explanations as to why these noises are being used.

According to Technology Connections, it is all due to how the brain pinpoints where a noise is coming from.

They say that a monotonous beeping alarm, like we’d normally hear, is harder to pinpoint.

A white-noise alarm, however, is easier for us to pinpoint and recognize.

A quicker recognition of a reversing delivery vehicle could decrease the chances of an accident.

The alarms bring even more benefits

Something else Amazon has considered is the noise pollution from traditional alarms.

Every day, noise from traffic can cause harm to our well-being, thanks to excess noise pollution.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states why the white-noise alarm is a good idea.

Company trucks with obstructed views need a clearly distinguishable reversing alarm.

It has to stand out from the surrounding noises in whichever area the vehicle is in.

That sound has to be audible above every other noise.

These new white-noise alarms should also cut down on noise complaints.

Complying with environmental regulations is more important than ever.

The sounds might be annoying to some, but that surely means they are doing their job and are effective, too!

Henry is a content writer with nearly ten years experience, having written for various publications since 2017. Qualifying with a Sports Journalism degree from Staffordshire University, Henry loves all things automotive but has a particular soft spot for classic Japanese cars and anything Lancia. He also has a curious passion for steam locomotives.