Context
- The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed that all new electric vehicles must be fitted with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) from October 1, 2026.
- The rule aims to enhance pedestrian safety, particularly for visually impaired persons, given the near-silent operation of EVs.
Key Highlights
- Implementation Timeline
- From October 1, 2026: All newly manufactured EVs must be equipped with AVAS.
- From October 1, 2027: Existing EV models must be retrofitted with AVAS to comply with safety standards.
- Scope of the Rule
- Category M vehicles → Electric cars and buses (passenger transport).
- Category N vehicles → Electric trucks and goods carriers.
- Also includes: electric three-wheelers, e-rickshaws, and electric carts.
- Purpose of AVAS
- Electric vehicles produce very low noise → pedestrians & road users miss sound cues.
- AVAS generates artificial sound to warn:
- Pedestrians (especially visually impaired).
- Other vehicles in the vicinity.
- Enhances road safety and prevents accidents.
- Global Context
- AVAS rules already in place in:
- European Union (EU)
- United States
- Japan
- India’s adoption brings regulations in line with international safety standards.