New Delhi. In the coming years, vehicles on Indian roads will not only be smart but also capable of communicating with each other. The central government is preparing to make vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication systems mandatory in new vehicles to strengthen road safety. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued a draft notification in this regard.
What is a V2V communication system?
V2V (Vehicle-to-Vehicle) is a technology in which vehicles share real-time information with other vehicles via a wireless network. Vehicles share information such as their speed, location, direction, and acceleration. If a vehicle ahead suddenly brakes, changes lanes, or an accident occurs, the vehicle behind will receive an early alert. This allows the driver to be alerted in time, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Not a substitute for ADAS, but a complementary technology
The government has clarified that V2V technology will not replace existing ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). This technology, combined with camera, radar and sensor-based safety systems, will make road safety more effective. For this, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has also designated the 5.875 GHz to 5.925 GHz frequency band, which will enable vehicles to share data between themselves quickly and securely.
When will the rule come into effect?
According to the draft, V2V systems could be made mandatory in all new vehicles manufactured in the L, M, and N categories from October 1, 2028.
L Category: Two-wheelers and three-wheelers
M Category: Cars, buses and other passenger vehicles
N Category: Trucks and light commercial vehicles
Vehicles that already have this technology will need to be updated to the new standards from October 1, 2027. The government believes that a phased implementation will give vehicle manufacturers and component companies enough time to develop the technology.
Where in the world is it being used?
V2V and V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) technologies are being developed in China, Japan, the United States, and several European countries. Currently, most countries are using them in pilots or on a limited scale. China is considered to be at the forefront of connected vehicle technology, while Japan is focusing more on V2X systems.
Privacy concerns also arise.
Vehicles with this technology will only share operational data. Driver names, mobile numbers, or other personal information will not be shared. However, experts believe that clear rules regarding the misuse or third-party access of travel patterns and vehicle data will be necessary.
Vehicle prices may rise.
Incorporating new technology into vehicles can increase manufacturing costs, which could impact prices. However, given the potential for reduced road accidents and improved safety, it is considered a key technology for the future.