In a move aimed at improving road safety, India is planning to mandate acoustic vehicle alerting systems (AVAS) for electric vehicles. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed a new rule requiring all electric cars, buses, and trucks to be equipped with AVAS by October 1, 2027. The initiative stems from concerns about the silent operation of EVs, which can be dangerous for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users. The new regulation will be enforced for new passenger and goods EV models starting October 1, 2026, and will extend to all existing EV models by October 2027. According to the draft notification, the installation of AVAS must comply with AIS-173 standards to ensure consistent and safe artificial sound output from vehicles. AVAS is designed to activate at speeds up to 20 km/h, where EVs operate quietly, making them difficult for pedestrians to hear. At higher speeds, tire and wind noise usually provide sufficient warning, so AVAS is not required. This system is particularly important in urban areas to protect pedestrians, especially those with visual impairments. The mandate is in line with global safety standards, as AVAS is already required in EVs and hybrid vehicles in countries like the United States, Japan, and those in the European Union. Alongside AVAS, MoRTH is also proposing to remove the requirement for spare tires in vehicles with tubeless tires, affecting cars, three-wheelers, and quadricycles. While AVAS will enhance pedestrian safety, overall vehicle safety also depends on crash protection, body structure, and battery safety. Safe Made-in-India EVs include Tata Punch EV, Tata Nexon EV, and Mahindra XUV400 EV. Some EVs are already equipped with AVAS.
