The Indian government is considering a new mandate that would require vehicles to communicate with each other and their surroundings by 2028. This technology, known as Vehicle-to-Everything or V2X, allows cars to share real-time data about their speed, location, and direction. By creating a digital network of vehicles, the system aims to warn drivers of potential collisions before they are even visible to the human eye.
This proposal marks a significant shift in India’s approach to road safety, moving beyond passive features like airbags and seatbelts toward active, connected technology. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is evaluating how this infrastructure could be integrated into the existing traffic ecosystem. If implemented, the mandate would require manufacturers to install specialized hardware in all new vehicles sold across the country.
For the average driver, this means a car could automatically alert them if another vehicle is running a red light at an intersection or if a car ahead has suddenly braked. The technology relies on short-range wireless signals to transmit information in milliseconds. This rapid exchange of data is designed to reduce human error, which remains a leading cause of traffic accidents on Indian roads.
However, the transition involves significant logistical hurdles. Beyond the cars themselves, the country would need to upgrade traffic signals and road infrastructure to communicate with these vehicles. There are also questions regarding the cost of such technology, as manufacturers would likely pass the expense of these advanced sensors and communication modules on to consumers.
As the 2028 deadline approaches, the government is expected to hold consultations with automotive industry leaders to discuss technical standards and feasibility. The success of this initiative will depend on how effectively these connected systems can operate in India’s diverse and often unpredictable traffic conditions.