Quick Highlights:MoRTH mandates AVAS for all new EVs from October 1, 2026, and existing models from October 1, 2027.AVAS will make EVs audible at low speeds, improving pedestrian and cyclist safety.Some EVs like the MG Comet EV and Mahindra BE 6 already feature AVAS.AVAS offers safety, brand distinction, and regulatory compliance benefits.Government to Mandate AVAS in All Electric Vehicles from 2026Electric vehicles have quickly gained popularity across India, thanks to their zero tailpipe emissions, lower running costs, and government incentives. However, one common concern has always been their lack of engine noise. While this offers a quieter driving experience for EV owners, it poses a risk for pedestrians and cyclists who may not hear an approaching EV. To address this, the Government of India is stepping in with a new mandate that will make Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) mandatory in all electric vehicles.What Is AVAS?AVAS, or Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System , is a safety feature designed specifically for electric and hybrid vehicles. Since EVs operate almost silently at low speeds, AVAS emits artificial sounds to alert pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users of the vehicle’s presence. The sound is noticeable but not disruptive, ensuring both safety and comfort for people on the road.Typically, AVAS operates at speeds below 20 kmph or 30 kmph, when tyre noise and aerodynamic friction are not strong enough to make the vehicle audible. It uses strategically placed speakers at the front and rear of the car to emit sound in real-time, based on the vehicle’s speed and movement.MoRTH’s New RuleThe Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) recently issued a notification that makes AVAS mandatory for all electrified vehicles of categories M (passenger vehicles) and N (goods vehicles) . The notification states:“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 AVAS meeting requirements with regard to audibility as specified in AIS-173, as amended from time to time.”This means from October 1, 2026, all newly launched EVs will come with AVAS, while existing models will have until October 1, 2027, to comply.Current EVs with AVASWhile the mandate is still a couple of years away, some EVs on sale in India already offer AVAS to improve pedestrian safety. These include, MG Comet EV, Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, Tata Harrier EV, Mahindra XEV 9e, Mahindra BE 6.These models give a glimpse into the future of EV safety, ensuring that the vehicles are not just eco-friendly but also pedestrian-friendly.Benefits of AVASThe introduction of AVAS brings several advantages:Pedestrian Safety: The most important benefit is reducing accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists by making EVs audible at low speeds.Brand Distinction: Automakers can design unique sound signatures for their EVs, helping to build brand recognition in a growing EV market.Regulatory Compliance: AVAS ensures that manufacturers meet national and international safety regulations.Driver Confidence: It allows EV owners to feel more confident driving in crowded areas, knowing their vehicle is more noticeable.Why AVAS Matters for EV AdoptionThe rapid adoption of electric vehicles brings with it new challenges. While their near-silent operation is a benefit for reducing noise pollution, it inadvertently creates risks for road safety. AVAS bridges this gap by restoring an auditory signal to EVs without recreating the loudness of internal combustion engines.With the government mandate now in place, India is aligning with global safety standards, ensuring that the transition to EVs does not compromise pedestrian safety. By October 2026, buyers of new EVs can expect their cars to come equipped with this important safety feature.ConclusionThe government’s decision to mandate AVAS marks a crucial step in balancing EV innovation with road safety. As more EVs hit Indian roads, this regulation will help minimize accidents and make electric mobility safer for everyone. With some automakers already adopting AVAS, the future of EV driving in India looks not only sustainable but also more secure.