Ministry of Road Transport Mandates Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System for All EVs from October 2026

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued a draft notification requiring electric vehicles (EVs) across passenger and cargo segments to be fitted with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS). The step, set to take effect in phases beginning October 2026, aims to improve pedestrian safety by ensuring that otherwise silent EVs are easily heard on the road.

Implementation Timeline and Coverage

According to the ministry’s draft, “On and after October 1, 2026, in case of new models and October 1, 2027, in case of existing models, electrified vehicles of category M and N shall be fitted with Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) meeting requirements with regard to audibility.”

This mandate covers Category M vehicles such as electric cars and buses used for passenger transport, and Category N vehicles, including electric trucks and goods carriers. The scope also extends to electric three-wheelers, e-rickshaws, and e-carts, ensuring uniform compliance across private and commercial fleets.

What is AVAS Safety Enhancement? 

An Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System functions through external speakers that generate artificial sound as EVs move. Since electric cars and hybrids run almost silently compared to conventional vehicles, AVAS produces variable tones that change with speed and are particularly effective at low speeds or when reversing. This feature alerts pedestrians and road users to the presence of an approaching vehicle, reducing accident risks linked to inaudible traffic.

International Practices and Precedents

Several nations have already made AVAS mandatory for electric and hybrid vehicles, including the United States, Japan, and European Union members. India’s adoption of the requirement brings its regulatory framework in line with these global standards while addressing domestic safety concerns as EV adoption accelerates.

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Conclusion

By setting deadlines of October 2026 for new EV models and October 2027 for existing ones, MoRTH has taken a decisive step to strengthen road safety. The introduction of AVAS is expected to make India’s streets safer for pedestrians while ensuring the country’s EV ecosystem adheres to international best practices in vehicle safety.

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