Electric Vehicles Must Make Noise

According to a European Reglament from 2014, 4-wheel vehicles that can be impulsed by an electric motor, of categories M1, M2, M3 and N1, N2, N3, that come on the market as of July 2019 must be equipped with a ´noise making device´ that automatically activates when the vehicle drives at low speed, under 20 km/hr, both in forward and backward direction. The system is called AVAS, Acoustic Vehicle Alert System. By 1 July 2021 all new vehicles sold in or imported to the EU, regardless of their type, must be equipped with an AVAS. The technical details are further specified in the European Commission’s Delegated Regulation of June 2017.

The manufacturers should give the owner/driver of the vehicle the choice between various ´noises´ but they should resemble regular motor noise associated with a similar vehicle impulsed by an internal combustion motor and be sufficiently strong to be able to alert pedestrians of their approach.

Originally, AVAS systems would be designed such that drivers could interrupt the signal with a switch, but this has met much opposition from the European Blind Union. In the US the switch has already been banned and the EU Commission has committed to banning it as well, expected before July 2019.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.