From this month, all new-model electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles entering the Australian market will be fitted with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) as standard, in a welcome boost to pedestrian safety.

An AVAS emits sound when an electric vehicle is travelling at low speeds, such as in low speed streets and lanes, intersections or carparks. 

This simple upgrade to new vehicles will make Australian school zones, city streets and car parks a safer place for pedestrians as the uptake in quieter electric and hybrid vehicles continues to climb.

Vehicles fitted with an AVAS will be no noisier than a standard internal combustion engine vehicle, however the sound they emit will be easily identifiable by pedestrians. 

Importantly, this is a key safety initiative for people who are blind or have low vision, and will allow them to continue navigating Australian streets and carparks safely.

Known as Australian Design Rule 113/00, mandating this technology is estimated to prevent a total of 68 fatalities and 2,675 serious injuries by 2060, or on average, one fatality and 75 serious injuries each year.

As well as reducing road trauma, a key priority of the Australian Government, it is also estimated to save the community over $200 million by 2060.

All new electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell models entering the Australian market for the first time from today must be compliant with ADR 113/00. Models currently approved for sale will need to be updated to become compliant by 1 November 2026. 

Motorists who already own a hybrid or electric vehicle will not need to modify their vehicle to make it compliant.

To find out more about ADR 113/00, visit: https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2024L00089/latest/text 

Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“Some vehicle manufacturers have already introduced Acoustic Vehicle Alert Systems in inventive ways, with orchestral sounds and whirrs warning pedestrians and other road users when the car is approaching. 

“AVAS has proven to be clear and effective in keeping people safe, so we’re making it compulsory. 

“So I’m thrilled that as of today, you won’t just see a growing number of electric and hybrid vehicles on Australian roads, you’ll hear them too.”