Silent Vehicles to Make Some Noise: New Legislation Mandates Noise Making Devices

Will the introduction of noise-making devices for nearly silent vehicles significantly enhance pedestrian safety?

The federal government is taking steps to improve pedestrian safety by introducing legislation that requires nearly silent vehicles to be fitted with noise-making devices. Electric and hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles will soon be required to comply with this new design rule, which mandates the fitting of an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS). These devices generate a safety alert or sound when low-speed vehicles are traveling in areas such as car parks, intersections, and driveways. While quieter vehicles may be more environmentally friendly, they pose a challenge for pedestrians, especially those with visual impairments. The government aims to address this risk with the introduction of AVAS.

The federal government is set to introduce new legislation requiring noise-making devices for nearly silent vehicles. This move aims to enhance pedestrian safety in the face of increasing numbers of electric and fuel cell-powered vehicles on the roads. These vehicles, which operate at low speeds, will be required to comply with a design rule mandating the fitting of an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS). This system generates a safety alert or sound when such vehicles are traveling in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present, such as car parks, intersections, and driveways.

The legislation will not only cover battery electric vehicles (BEVs) but also other quiet vehicles powered by hybrid or hydrogen fuel cell engines. The aim is to address the risk that near-silent vehicles pose to pedestrians, particularly those who rely on sound to navigate the road network independently. While conventional petrol or diesel vehicles may be considered noisier, they are generally easier for pedestrians to hear and do not require AVAS.

According to the government, near-silent vehicles have been identified as a potential hazard to pedestrians, especially those with visual impairments. The introduction of AVAS aims to mitigate this risk and improve pedestrian safety. From November 2025, a new Australian Design Rule (ADR) will require new electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell cars, trucks, and buses to be fitted with an AVAS. This rule will ensure that these vehicles are as audible as their conventional counterparts, without creating excessive noise.

The decision to introduce AVAS has been the result of a consultative process involving state and territory governments, the blind and low-vision community, and vehicle manufacturers. The draft Impact Analysis proposing the mandate for AVAS for light vehicles received strong support from these stakeholders. Various studies have indicated that the new design rule may help prevent numerous fatalities and injuries by 2060, saving the Australian community millions of dollars.

The introduction of AVAS has been welcomed by government officials, including the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King. She emphasized the government’s commitment to road safety, particularly with the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs). The Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, highlighted the importance of inclusivity in transitioning to a cleaner and greener future. According to her, reasonable adjustments for people with disabilities can benefit everyone.

The Minister for the National Disability Insurance, Bill Shorten, expressed his support for the Australian Design Rule mandating AVAS for electric vehicles. He believes that this rule will ultimately improve road safety for all road users. While the government’s efforts are commendable, there are calls for additional safety measures for pedestrians. Daimler Truck Australia has praised the introduction of AVAS but argues for more comprehensive protection for pedestrians.

Daimler Truck Australia Pacific president and CEO, Daniel Whitehead, acknowledged the government’s requirement for AVAS in electric trucks. However, he emphasized the need for additional safety measures beyond sound alerts. Daimler’s electric trucks already feature radar systems that can automatically stop the vehicle to avoid colliding with pedestrians. Mr. Whitehead believes that competitors in the electric truck space should provide similar safety features to enhance pedestrian protection.

Andrew Assimo, Daimler Truck’s Sales and Marketing Vice President, further emphasized the importance of considering all aspects when purchasing an electric truck. Safety features, such as radar systems, should be a key consideration. He also highlighted the significance of an experienced dealership network, efficient eAxle technology, and the truck’s performance in local Australian conditions.

In conclusion, the federal government’s move to legislate noise-making devices for nearly silent vehicles is a significant step towards improving pedestrian safety. The introduction of Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) aims to make low-speed electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles more audible in critical pedestrian areas. This legislative change has garnered support from state and territory governments, the blind and low-vision community, and vehicle manufacturers. While AVAS is a positive development, there are calls for further safety measures beyond sound alerts, particularly in electric trucks. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, it is crucial to prioritize safety and inclusivity on the roads.

Will the introduction of noise-making devices for nearly silent vehicles significantly enhance pedestrian safety?

• New legislation will require nearly silent vehicles to be fitted with noise-making devices
• The devices, known as Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS), will emit a safety alert or sound when low-speed vehicles are traveling in certain areas
• The legislation applies to electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
• The government aims to improve pedestrian safety, particularly for those with visual impairments
• The new design rule will come into effect from November 2025
• The legislation has received support from various stakeholders, including state and territory governments, the blind and low-vision community, and vehicle manufacturers

The federal government’s commitment to road safety is evident in its decision to introduce legislation mandating noise-making devices for nearly silent vehicles. The new design rule requiring the fitting of Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) aims to mitigate the risks posed by low-speed electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to pedestrians. While this change has received broad support, there are calls for additional safety measures beyond sound alerts, particularly in the case of electric trucks. As the Australian community embraces cleaner and greener transportation options, it is imperative to prioritize road safety and inclusivity for all road users.