Pune, 19th January 2024: In response to growing safety concerns related to the low noise levels of electric vehicles (EVs), the Central Government has authorized the implementation of measures to increase the sound of these vehicles, according to an announcement by Reji Mathai, Director of the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), on Thursday.
Electric vehicles, celebrated for their quiet operation, have posed a potential risk to pedestrians due to their low noise levels. To address this issue, the Central Government has given the nod for the adoption of the Acoustic Voice Alert System (AVAS) in electric vehicles, with regulations in place for its mandatory enforcement, as explained by Dr. Mathai.
The AVAS is designed to generate noise when the electric vehicle is traveling at speeds less than 20 kmph. Audible within a five-foot radius, the sound mimics that of a traditional engine running. This safety feature activates upon starting the e-vehicle and deactivates when the vehicle is turned off. Notably, Maruti Suzuki took the initiative to incorporate AVAS in some of its electric cars last year.
Dr. Mathai also shed light on advancements in charging infrastructure, particularly for heavy vehicles like trucks and buses. ARAI is actively developing chargers exceeding 100 kW capacity, surpassing the conventional 100 kW AC/DC chargers. Additionally, efforts are underway to create an overhead charging system for heavy vehicles, featuring a charging point at the head of the vehicles, ensuring smooth charging without hindrance.
Underlining ARAI’s commitment to automotive research and safety, Dr. Mathai disclosed a significant investment of approximately Rs 146 crore in Takve, near Talegaon Dabhade. This investment has facilitated the establishment of a specialized 20-acre track for testing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) vehicles.
