Introduction
Sound Alerts to Become Mandatory in Electric Vehicles from 2027: The Government of India will make sound alert systems mandatory in all electric vehicles from October 1, 2027. The decision, announced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), aims to improve pedestrian safety and reduce risks caused by the silent operation of EVs. This move brings India closer to global EV safety standards followed in the US, Japan, and the European Union.
What is AVAS
The Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) produces artificial sounds to make electric vehicles detectable to pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users. EVs are nearly silent compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, increasing accident risks in crowded urban areas.
Static GK fact: The European Union made AVAS mandatory for all new EV models from July 2019.
Timeline of Implementation
The rollout will be completed in two phases. From October 1, 2026, all newly launched EV models must include AVAS. From October 1, 2027, every ongoing EV model in production will require the system. The sound standards must comply with AIS-173, ensuring uniform safety benchmarks.
Static GK Tip: AIS standards are developed by the Automotive Industry Standards Committee under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Vehicle Categories Covered
The regulation applies to two categories:
- Category M: Electric cars and buses used for passenger transport.
- Category N: Electric trucks and goods carriers.
This ensures both passenger and commercial EVs adopt the new safety technology.
Why It Matters
The mandate will significantly improve road safety, especially in congested Indian cities where silent EVs can approach unnoticed. It also aligns India with global EV regulations, promoting confidence among road users. Safer EVs are expected to encourage wider adoption of clean mobility solutions.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the benefits, the regulation faces hurdles. Standardising sound levels will be crucial to prevent urban noise pollution. Automakers must also address implementation costs, which could affect production pricing. Additionally, public awareness campaigns will be needed to explain the purpose and importance of these artificial sounds.
Static GK fact: India has pledged to achieve 30% EV adoption by 2030 under its clean mobility goals.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Sound Alerts to Become Mandatory in Electric Vehicles from 2027:
| Topic | Detail |
| Regulating authority | Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) |
| Technology | Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) |
| Standard | AIS-173 (Automotive Industry Standard for audibility) |
| New EV models compliance | October 1, 2026 |
| All EV models compliance | October 1, 2027 |
| Vehicle categories | Category M (passenger EVs), Category N (goods EVs) |
| International practice | US, Japan, EU already mandate AVAS |
| Safety aim | Pedestrian and cyclist protection |
| National EV goal | 30% EV adoption by 2030 |
| Static GK body | Automotive Industry Standards Committee (AISC) |
