What Is AVAS? The Electric Car Warning Sound vs In-Cabin Engine Sound

Electric cars are nearly silent at low speed, so they play a sound called AVAS (Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System) to warn pedestrians and cyclists. What is it, can it be changed, and how does it relate to in-cabin engine sound apps?

What is AVAS?

AVAS is a warning sound played by a speaker mounted outside the car at low speed and in reverse. Its purpose is to make a quietly approaching vehicle noticeable. In Europe it is mandatory for new electric and hybrid vehicles under rules based on UN Regulation 138. The sound has to change with speed and meet minimum levels. The required speed range extends to roughly 20 km/h; above that, wind and tire noise already make the car audible.

Can you change or turn off AVAS?

Generally not. The sound is designed by the manufacturer to meet regulations, and tampering with it can affect your warranty and the law. Many countries do not allow the warning to be switched off. We are not giving legal advice; check your local rules.

In-cabin engine sound is a different thing

AVAS plays outside for pedestrians. An app like Wind Asist Drive plays sound only through the speakers inside the car for the driver’s experience. It does not touch or disable the external warning system, and nothing in the car is modified.

• Sound comes through the car’s media channel; keep the volume low enough to hear traffic.
• Don’t interact with the screen while the car is moving; the app is designed for passenger use.

Setup: add engine sound to an electric car.