Photo: EVMOVZ
CNN – The Australian government requires all new electric cars to emit sound starting November 1, 2025. The policy also applies to hybrid and hydrogen-powered vehicles. The goal is to help other road users notice the presence of zero-emission vehicles and reduce the risk of accidents.
Regulators explained that the artificial sound is generated by the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS). The system will be active when the vehicle travels up to 20 kilometers per hour, such as in parking areas, intersections, or residential driveways. This regulation applies to passenger cars, pickup trucks, trucks, and buses newly introduced to the Australian market.
Electric and hybrid vehicles are considered harder to hear compared to gasoline or diesel vehicles. This condition increases the risk of accidents, especially for pedestrians and cyclists. The advocacy organization supporting people who are blind or visually impaired, Vision Australia, reported that 35 percent of its members have nearly been hit or have been hit by silent vehicles.
The Federal Government estimates that implementing this rule could prevent 68 deaths, 2,675 serious injuries, and 2,962 minor injuries by 2060. The policy is also expected to save about 208 million Australian dollars in social costs. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, and Regional Development stated that this policy has broad support from state governments, the blind community, and vehicle manufacturers. (*)
