Safety First: Electric Vehicles Set To Make More Noise To Prevent Accidents
Pune, 19th January 2024: In response to safety concerns related to the low noise levels of electric vehicles, the Central Government has given the green light to increase the sound of e-vehicles, as announced by the Director of the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), Reji Mathai, on Thursday.
Electric vehicles, known for their quiet operation, have raised questions regarding pedestrian safety due to their low noise levels. To address this, the implementation of the Acoustic Voice Alert System (AVAS) in e-vehicles has been recommended, and the central government has now introduced regulations for its enforcement, according to Dr. Mathai.
The AVAS generates noise when the e-vehicle is travelling at speeds less than 20 kmph. The sound, audible within a five-foot radius, resembles the noise 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 began incorporating AVAS in some of its e-cars last year.
Dr Mathai also discussed advancements in charging infrastructure, particularly for heavy vehicles like trucks and buses. While 100 kW AC/DC chargers were conventionally used, ARAI is actively developing chargers exceeding 100 kW capacity. Additionally, efforts are underway to create an overhead charging system for heavy vehicles. This innovative system, featuring a charging point at the head of heavy vehicles, aims to enable smooth charging without hindrance.
Highlighting ARAI’s commitment to automotive research and safety, Dr Mathai mentioned a significant investment of approximately Rs 146 crore in Takve, near Talegaon Dabhade. The investment has facilitated the establishment of a specialized 20-acre track for testing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) vehicles.
