The government has proposed making advanced emergency braking systems mandatory in new passenger cars by 2030. This move aims to enhance vehicle safety by introducing features that can prevent accidents and protect passengers.
- New car models from October 1, 2028, must have advanced emergency braking systems.
- All models must comply by October 1, 2030.
- Other safety features like lane-keeping assistance and driver drowsiness warnings will also be phased in.
- Additional requirements include luggage retention and child-seat anchorage systems.
- Transport vehicles must comply with some rules starting October 1, 2029.
What are the new safety features proposed for passenger vehicles?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed several advanced safety features for passenger vehicles. These include:
- Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS): Uses sensors to detect potential collisions and automatically applies brakes if the driver does not respond in time.
- Lane-Keeping Assistance: Helps drivers stay within their lane to avoid accidents caused by drifting.
- Driver Drowsiness Warning Systems: Alerts drivers if signs of fatigue or drowsiness are detected.
- Luggage Retention Systems: Prevent baggage from moving dangerously during collisions.
- Child-Seat Anchorage Systems: Includes ISOFIX and top-tether anchorages to secure child seats safely.
When will these features become mandatory?
The government has outlined a phased timeline for implementation:
- From October 1, 2028, all new car models must be equipped with advanced emergency braking systems.
- By October 1, 2030, all passenger car models must have these systems installed.
- For vehicles still in production before 2030, AEBS will be mandatory by October 2032.
- Transport vehicles in the M1 category must comply with these technologies starting October 1, 2029.
- Luggage retention requirements apply to new models from April 1, 2028, and to all models by October 1, 2028.
- Child-seat anchorage systems must meet safety standards from October 2027 for new models and October 2028 for all models.
What is the significance of the Advanced Emergency Braking System?
The Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS) is a critical safety technology. It uses sensors to monitor the road ahead and detect potential collisions. If the driver does not react quickly enough, the system automatically applies the brakes to reduce the severity of an accident or avoid it altogether. This technology can save lives by preventing crashes caused by delayed driver responses.
Are there other vehicle safety standards included in the proposal?
Yes, the draft rules also include standards for:
- Steering systems to improve vehicle control.
- Emergency lane-keeping systems to prevent unintended lane departures.
- Luggage retention systems to secure baggage during collisions.
- Child-seat anchorage systems to ensure child safety seats are properly installed.
How will these rules affect existing vehicles?
The phased approach means that vehicles already in production before 2030 will have until October 2032 to comply with the AEBS requirement. This allows manufacturers time to update existing models. Transport vehicles registered in the M1 category will also have specific compliance dates starting in 2029.
What are the next steps for these proposed rules?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has released these draft rules for public consideration. The rules will be reviewed after a 30-day period from the date of notification. Following this, the government will finalize the regulations and set official implementation dates.
