The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed making Vehicle to Vehicle communication technology mandatory for all newly manufactured L, M, and N category vehicles in India from October 1, 2028. The proposal has been issued through a draft notification seeking amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, and will come into effect only after the consultation process and final government approval.
The proposed regulation represents another step toward modernizing India's transportation ecosystem by introducing advanced communication technologies that can improve road safety and traffic management. If implemented, manufacturers will be required to equip eligible new vehicles with Vehicle to Vehicle communication systems capable of exchanging critical safety information with nearby vehicles.
Vehicle to Vehicle communication, commonly referred to as V2V technology, enables vehicles to wirelessly exchange information such as speed, direction, braking status, location, and driving conditions. This real time communication allows vehicles to alert drivers or onboard safety systems about potential hazards before they become visible, helping reduce the likelihood of collisions.
According to the draft proposal, the requirement will apply to newly manufactured vehicles classified under L, M, and N categories. These categories include two wheelers, passenger vehicles, buses, and commercial goods vehicles, depending on their classification under Indian motor vehicle regulations.
The Ministry believes that introducing V2V technology can significantly strengthen road safety by supporting faster hazard detection and improving driver awareness. The technology can issue advance warnings for sudden braking, lane changes, blind spot risks, approaching emergency vehicles, and potential intersection collisions. These alerts can help drivers take timely corrective action and reduce accident risks.
In addition to improving safety, Vehicle to Vehicle communication forms an essential component of Intelligent Transportation Systems. These systems integrate connected vehicles with digital infrastructure to enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion, improve emergency response, and support future mobility solutions.
The proposal also aligns with global trends in connected vehicle technology. Several countries have been exploring or implementing vehicle communication standards as part of broader efforts to improve transportation safety and prepare for the future adoption of connected and autonomous vehicles.
Automobile manufacturers may need to integrate dedicated communication hardware, software platforms, and cybersecurity measures into future vehicle designs to comply with the proposed regulation. Industry experts believe that while initial implementation may require additional investment, connected vehicle technologies are expected to become increasingly common as automotive technology continues to evolve.
The draft notification remains open for consultation before it becomes part of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules. During this period, automobile manufacturers, industry associations, technical experts, and other stakeholders may submit comments and recommendations for consideration by the Ministry.
Road safety continues to be a major priority for policymakers in India. The government has introduced several initiatives in recent years aimed at reducing road accidents through stricter safety regulations, improved vehicle standards, enhanced driver awareness, and better road infrastructure. The proposed V2V communication requirement is viewed as another important measure supporting these long term objectives.
Technology specialists note that connected vehicle communication can also complement advanced driver assistance systems by providing additional information beyond the driver's direct line of sight. As vehicle technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, communication between vehicles is expected to play a greater role in preventing accidents and improving traffic efficiency.
If the proposal receives final approval, automobile manufacturers will have several years to prepare for compliance before the planned implementation date of October 1, 2028. The transition period is intended to allow sufficient time for technology development, testing, certification, and large scale production.
The proposal reflects the government's broader vision of encouraging safer, smarter, and more connected mobility solutions while supporting the future development of intelligent transportation infrastructure across the country.