The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued a draft notification mandating the installation of Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) in all electric vehicles classified under M and N categories. In simple terms, the quiet electric vehicle will soon make a soft sound to alert pedestrians nearby.
What is AVAS and why does it matter?
An Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) emits a gentle sound when electric or hybrid vehicles are moving at low speeds. Unlike petrol or diesel vehicles that naturally produce engine noise, electric vehicles are almost silent, making them harder for pedestrians—especially children, the elderly, and visually impaired individuals—to detect. This raises the risk of accidents.
AVAS bridges that gap by alerting people in the vehicle’s path. This move aligns with global safety standards and promises to benefit every road user by providing early audio cues of an approaching vehicle.
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When will this rule take effect?
The rule is proposed to roll out in two phases:
- New models: From October 1, 2026, all new electric vehicles in the M and N categories must have AVAS.
- Existing models: From October 1, 2027, manufacturers must retrofit AVAS into current models already in production.
The sound will adhere to AIS-173 standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), ensuring it’s noticeable but not disruptive.
Which Vehicles Are Covered?
- M Category: Passenger vehicles (cars, buses).
- N Category: Goods vehicles (trucks, commercial vans).
The updated rule also mentions L5, L7, e-rickshaws, and e-carts, suggesting these may soon be included, improving safety in the three-wheeler and last-mile transport segments.
Public Feedback Invited
This is still a draft. The Ministry has invited suggestions and objections from the public and industry stakeholders within 30 days.
