Today, while crossing a busy grocery store parking lot, I was really startled by a silent Prius driving accross my path. Since I didn't hear a noise, I didn't expect to see it moving near me.
I'm coming down on the side of noise pollution here. EVs (BEVs or HEVs in electric mode) should make some sort of noise, loud enough for a pedestrian to hear within about 15 feet or so. Silent cars are not as safe.