Automatic brakes to become mandatory in cars from 2030:Drowsiness alerts proposed for vehicles; govt invites public feedback

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed making Automatic Emergency Braking Systems (AEBS) mandatory in new cars from October 1, 2030, to improve road safety and prevent accidents. Under the draft proposal, all new cars launched from October 1, 2030, would be required to have the system, which can automatically apply the brakes when it detects an imminent collision. The government has proposed extending the requirement to all new and used cars sold in the market from October 1, 2032. The proposed regulations will be introduced under the Automotive Industry Standard AIS-185. The government has also proposed mandatory driver drowsiness and distraction warning systems, along with lane-keeping technology, in commercial vehicles. Automatic brakes to be extended to more vehicles Currently, automatic emergency brakes is primarily available in premium cars equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The proposed rules aim to expand access to the technology and adapt it to Indian road and traffic conditions. In India, where vehicles often travel close together in heavy traffic, some drivers switch off automatic braking systems because they fear sudden braking could lead to a vehicle behind them crashing into their car. The government’s proposal seeks to improve vehicle safety through standards suited to local driving conditions. The draft also covers small commercial vehicles used to transport goods weighing up to 3.5 tonnes. Manufacturers introducing automatic braking in cars or these small goods vehicles from October 1, 2028, would have to ensure the systems comply with Indian standards. Drowsiness alerts, lane-keeping systems proposed The draft rules also propose additional safety technologies for commercial vehicles. Driver drowsiness and distraction alerts: From October 1, 2029, buses, taxis and other commercial vehicles would be required to have systems that alert drivers when they show signs of drowsiness or distraction. Lane-keeping assistance: The technology would also become mandatory in commercial vehicles from October 1, 2029. It is designed to help prevent vehicles from unintentionally drifting out of their lanes. Child and luggage safety: The proposal includes stricter requirements for child-seat safety and securing luggage inside vehicles to reduce the risk of passengers being injured by unsecured objects during a collision. Public feedback invited within 30 days The ministry has invited suggestions and objections from the public, automobile manufacturers and industry experts on the draft rules within 30 days. The final regulations will be issued after the government reviews the feedback received. Until then, the proposed requirements and implementation dates remain subject to changes in the final rules.