Government to Introduce Acoustic Alert System for EVs from 2027, Excluding 2 and 3 Wheelers

All electric cars, buses, and trucks in India will be required to come equipped with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) from October 2027, according to a draft notification issued by the Ministry of Road Transport. The system will automatically generate a sound to alert pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users, particularly at low speeds, where electric vehicles operate almost silently.

The draft notification specifies that all new models of electric passenger and goods vehicles manufactured after October 2026 must include AVAS. Additionally, existing models produced from October 2027 onward will also need to be fitted with the system. The measure is part of the government’s effort to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists, as electric vehicles produce minimal noise compared to traditional vehicles.

However, the mandate currently does not cover electric two- and three-wheelers or e-rickshaws, despite these vehicles also being nearly silent. Experts say this could leave a gap in road safety . “There is a dire need to mandate this feature in electric two- and three-wheelers too. We see more instances of pedestrians being hit by two-wheelers, and since these make no noise, the risk of accidents is greater,” said Anil Chhikara, former deputy transport commissioner of Delhi.

The AVAS system is designed to operate primarily at low speeds of up to 20 kmph, where the quiet operation of electric vehicles poses a safety concern. At higher speeds, tyre and road noise are considered sufficient to alert others to the vehicle’s presence.

This system falls under the classification of Quiet Road Transport Vehicles (QRTVs)—vehicles that require artificial sound to ensure safety on busy streets. Earlier, TOI had reported on July 5 that the government was moving to make AVAS mandatory to reduce pedestrian accidents involving silent electric vehicles.

In another related proposal, the ministry plans to remove the requirement to carry a spare tyre for cars, three-wheelers, and quadricycles fitted with tubeless tyres. This is expected to simplify vehicle design, reduce weight, and slightly improve efficiency.

With the AVAS mandate, the government is aiming to make roads safer while encouraging the growth of electric mobility in India, addressing one of the key concerns of quiet-running EVs . Pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users can look forward to a new level of safety when electric vehicles take to the streets from 2027 onward.