AVAS System for EVs in India

The Indian government is taking a significant step to improve EV safety with the introduction of a mandatory AVAS system for EVs. From October 1, 2027, all electric vehicles (EVs) in India will be required to feature an electric vehicle sound alert system, designed to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users from the near-silent approach of EVs.

This move aligns India with global standards followed in countries like the United States, Japan, and the European Union.

What is the AVAS System for EVs?

AVAS technology, or the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System, is a safety mechanism that emits artificial sounds from EVs to alert people nearby. Unlike conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs operate almost silently, which can pose a risk in crowded urban areas. By introducing the AVAS system for EVs in India, the government aims to minimize accidents caused by silent electric cars, buses, and trucks.

The system works at low speeds, typically below 20 km/h, where the natural noise from an EV is minimal. It ensures pedestrians and cyclists are aware of approaching vehicles, providing an important safety layer in busy streets and residential areas.

Implementation Timeline in India

The rollout of the AVAS system for EVs will follow a phased timeline to ensure smooth adoption:

• From October 1, 2026: All newly launched EV models must come equipped with AVAS.

• From October 1, 2027: The AVAS system for EVs becomes mandatory for all existing EV models currently in production.

These systems must comply with AIS-173-compliant AVAS standards to ensure uniform sound levels across all vehicles, balancing safety with noise pollution concerns.

Vehicle Categories Covered

The new regulation applies to the following categories:

• Category M vehicles: Electric cars and buses designed for passenger transport.

• Category N vehicles: Electric trucks and goods carriers.

This means both passenger and commercial EVs must now feature the EV sound alert system, ensuring a comprehensive approach to road safety.

Why the AVAS System for EVs Matters

Enhanced Road Safety

• The primary benefit of the AVAS system for EVs is reducing the risk of accidents.

• Pedestrians and cyclists can now detect approaching EVs, which is especially important in congested urban areas where silent vehicles may go unnoticed.

Global Alignment

• By implementing this system, India aligns its EV safety standards with international norms, promoting safer mobility and increasing confidence among EV users.

Public Confidence and EV Adoption

• A mandatory AVAS system for electric vehicles will reassure the public about pedestrian safety, encouraging more people to adopt EVs without fear of silent collisions.

Challenges Ahead

While the AVAS system for EVs brings multiple benefits, some challenges need to be addressed:

• Standardization of Sound: Ensuring that artificial EV sounds are effective for safety without contributing to urban noise pollution.

• Implementation Costs: Automakers may incur additional costs in equipping vehicles with AVAS technology.

• Public Awareness: Pedestrians, drivers, and EV users need to understand the purpose of the EV alert sounds to avoid confusion.

Benefits of the AVAS System for Urban EVs

The introduction of the AVAS system for EVs in India has several long-term benefits:

• Reduces collisions in crowded urban areas.

• Provides an effective EV pedestrian warning system for vulnerable road users.

• Creates uniform safety standards through AVAS acoustic vehicle alert system standards.

• Boosts confidence in electric mobility by demonstrating proactive safety measures.

Key Takeaways

The AVAS system for EVs is a significant step towards safer roads and responsible urban mobility. By 2027, all EVs in India will be required to feature these sound alert systems, marking a major advancement in EV safety. The system aligns with global best practices, enhances pedestrian awareness, and supports India’s vision for safe and sustainable urban transport.

Static Facts for SSC Aspirants:

• Regulating Authority: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)

• Technology: Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS system for EVs)

• Standard: AIS‑173

• Timeline:

  • New EV models: October 1, 2026

  • All models: October 1, 2027

Final Thoughts

The Indian government is introducing a mandatory AVAS system for EVs from October 2027 to improve road safety. Unlike traditional vehicles, electric vehicles (EVs) are almost silent, which increases the risk of accidents in busy urban areas. The Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) emits artificial sounds to alert pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users about approaching EVs.

All new EV models from October 2026 and existing models by October 2027 must be equipped with this system, in accordance with AIS-173 standards. Both passenger vehicles, such as cars and buses (Category M), and commercial vehicles, such as trucks (Category N), are covered.

The AVAS system for EVs enhances pedestrian safety, aligns India with global EV safety standards, and encourages wider EV adoption by building public confidence. While challenges such as sound standardization, implementation costs, and public awareness remain, the system marks a significant step toward safer, smarter, and more sustainable urban transport.