In a significant step toward enhancing road safety amid India’s accelerating shift to electric mobility, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued draft rules to amend the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, introducing mandatory Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) for electric vehicles (EVs). The draft, published via notification G.S.R. 714(E) on September 23, 2025, is open for public comments and suggestions until 30 days after its official Gazette publication.
Why This Move Matters
As electric vehicles continue to gain momentum across India, one challenge has quietly emerged—silence. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs are nearly silent at low speeds, which poses a risk to pedestrians, especially the visually impaired and cyclists, who rely on vehicle sounds for spatial awareness.
To tackle this concern, MoRTH now proposes mandating AVAS in all electrified vehicles under categories M and N, aligning India’s automotive regulations with international best practices.
Key Highlights of the Draft Notification
1. AVAS Mandate for Electrified Vehicles (M and N Categories)
The draft rule introduces a new provision under Rule 120 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules:
- From October 1, 2026: All new models of electrified vehicles in M (passenger) and N (goods) categories must be fitted with Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS).
- From October 1, 2027: The rule will also apply to existing models in the market.
The AVAS must comply with AIS-173 standards (Automotive Industry Standard), ensuring audibility requirements are met at specific speed thresholds to enhance pedestrian safety.
2. Expanded Coverage Under Rule 138 (4)(a)
The amendment also broadens the category of vehicles mentioned in Rule 138, which deals with the use of safety devices and features:
- Previously applicable only to M1 category (standard passenger cars),
- The updated rule now includes L5, L7, E-rickshaws, and E-carts, which are increasingly prevalent in India’s urban and semi-urban mobility landscape.
Public Participation Invited
Stakeholders—vehicle manufacturers, transport authorities, safety advocates, and the general public—are invited to submit their objections or suggestions by writing to the Additional Secretary (MVL, Transport & Road Safety), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, or via email at comments-morth@gov.in.
This collaborative process ensures inclusivity in policymaking and gives all affected parties a voice before final rules are enforced.
Broader Implications for India’s EV Ecosystem
India’s electric vehicle market is witnessing exponential growth, backed by government incentives under FAME II, PLI schemes, and state EV policies. However, safety regulations must evolve alongside technology. The inclusion of AVAS:
- Enhances safety for pedestrians and vulnerable road users.
- Builds consumer confidence in EVs as a safe alternative.
- Encourages OEMs to innovate while maintaining compliance.
What’s Next?
After public consultation, MoRTH will finalize the rules, which will then be published officially. Once enforced, manufacturers will have to integrate AVAS systems in design, testing, and certification processes—an added cost, but a necessary one for public safety.
Conclusion
India’s draft rules on AVAS signal a clear message: safety cannot be compromised in the race to electrify. As EVs silently glide through our cities, ensuring they’re heard—even when not seen—will be critical to sustainable and inclusive mobility.