The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed a new regulation to improve safety for electric vehicle users and pedestrians. The draft notification mandates the installation of Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) in electric cars, buses and trucks. This move aims to reduce accidents caused by the silent operation of electric vehicles at low speeds. The rule will come into effect for new models from October 1, 2026, and for existing models by October 1, 2027.
Background and Need for AVAS
Electric vehicles (EVs) produce minimal noise at speeds below 20 kmph. This silence poses a risk to pedestrians, cyclists and other road users who may not detect an approaching vehicle. AVAS generates artificial sound to alert nearby people when an EV moves at low speeds. This safety feature addresses the rising number of accidents involving quiet electric vehicles in urban and suburban areas.
Implementation Timeline and Scope
From October 1, 2026, all new electric passenger and goods vehicles must have AVAS fitted. Existing vehicles will have a deadline of October 1, 2027, to comply. The regulation currently applies only to four-wheelers and larger electric vehicles. Two-wheelers, three-wheelers, e-rickshaws and e-carts are not yet included in the mandate, although experts have urged their inclusion to enhance safety.
Growth of Electric Vehicles in India
India has witnessed rapid growth in electric vehicle sales. In 2024 alone, 19.50 lakh EVs were sold, making up 7.44 percent of total vehicle sales. The share of EVs has grown from 0.01 percent in 2014-15 to over 7 percent in 2024-25. Total registered electric vehicles in India reached 56.75 lakh by February 2025. The government supports this growth to reduce emissions and achieve Net Zero targets.
International Precedents and Safety Standards
Countries like the United States and Japan have already implemented AVAS regulations for electric and hybrid vehicles. These systems generate sound at low speeds to improve pedestrian safety. India’s adoption of similar norms aligns with global safety trends and reflects the increasing importance of electric mobility.
Concerns and Future Directions
Analysts have raised concerns about excluding two and three-wheelers from the AVAS mandate. These vehicles are widely used, especially in suburban and rural areas. Their silent operation could lead to accidents if no alerting system is installed. Future regulations may extend AVAS requirements to all electric vehicle categories to ensure comprehensive road safety.
Technical Aspects of AVAS
AVAS activates when the vehicle speed is between zero and 20 kmph. Above 20 kmph, tyre noise and other mechanical sounds make artificial alerts unnecessary. The system produces a sound that mimics engine noise or other alerts to warn pedestrians and cyclists. The device is designed to balance audibility with noise pollution concerns.
Policy and Environmental Impact
The AVAS mandate complements India’s broader policy to promote electric vehicles and reduce fossil fuel dependence. By ensuring safer EV operation, the government encourages wider adoption without compromising road safety. This initiative supports India’s climate commitments and sustainable urban transport goals.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the challenges and solutions in integrating electric vehicles into urban transport systems with suitable examples.
- Underline the significance of pedestrian safety measures in the context of increasing electric vehicle usage in India.
- Critically analyse the impact of government policies on the growth of electric mobility and environmental sustainability.
- Estimate the role of technology like Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System in reducing road accidents and enhancing public safety.
