Cameras that catch drivers behind the wheel of cars that break legal noise limits could be rolled out across the UK.
The government is trialling new technology to measure the sound of passing vehicles using ANPR cameras.
Research from the Department for Transport shows the cameras could help tackle noisy vehicles.
Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling said: "Noise pollution makes the lives of people in communities across Britain an absolute misery and has very serious health impacts.
"This is why I am determined to crack down on the nuisance drivers who blight our streets.
"New technology will help us lead the way in making our towns and cities quieter, and I look forward to seeing how these exciting new cameras could work."
All vehicles must legally meet strict noise limits before they are allowed on the road.
Once a vehicle is in service, exhausts and silencers must by law be maintained in good working order and not altered to increase noise.
The government has commissioned a prototype noise camera to be tested at several locations over the next 7 months.
If the trials are successful, recommendations will be made to further develop the system across the UK.
