All new-model electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles entering the Australian market will now be fitted with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) as standard, in a boost to pedestrian safety announced by the Federal Government.
An AVAS emits sound when an electric vehicle is travelling at low speeds, such as in low speed streets and lanes, intersections or carparks.
The 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, said Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King.
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.
“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,” said Minister King.
“AVAS has proven to be clear and effective in keeping people safe, so we’re making it compulsory.
“…You won’t just see a growing number of electric and hybrid vehicles on Australian roads, you’ll hear them too.”
The change 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, said Minister King.
Known as Australian Design Rule 113/00, mandating the 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.
All new electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell models entering the Australian market for the first time 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, the Minister confirmed.
To find out more about ADR 113/00, visit: https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2024L00089/latest/text .
