The government has proposed a mandatory warning system for pedestrians in electric vehicles.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a draft notification for implementation of Acoustic Vehicle Alerting system (AVAS), which alerts the pedestrians about approaching electric vehicles as they are significantly quieter than internal combustion cars. These changes are expected to be implemented from next year. 

The MoRTH notification also stated further that, “On and after October 1, 2026, case for new cars and October 1, 2027, in case of existing models, it will be mandatory for category M and N vehicles to be meet the requirements of AVAS with regards to audibility as mentioned in AIS-173, as amended regularly within specific time periods.” Category M and N EVs come in the category of vehicles carrying passengers and goods. 

However, to give specific alerts to pedestrians, cyclists and other road users, electric vehicles are entitled to produce specific sounds when moving at low speeds (less than 20 km/hr). 

According to a report from the US Department of Transportation, electric cars carry a 20% higher risk of accident to pedestrians as compared to ICE cars and there is a 50% higher risk involved during low-speed driving, as AVAS is compulsory in US, Japan and Europe. 

Electric Vehicles Integrated with AVAS in India

There are various models on sale in India that are equipped with AVAS. These cars include MG Comet EV, Tata Curvv EV, and Hyundai Creta Electric. The Indian electric siblings, Mahindra XEV 7e and BE 6 also include this safety system.