This instrument establishes Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 113/00 - Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles) 2024 (ADR 113/00). Mechanically, it requires electrified passenger and goods vehicles that are capable of being propelled without an internal combustion engine (ICE) to meet specified minimum sound emission characteristics, either by complying with the incorporated UN Regulation No. 138 text in Appendix A, as varied by the standard’s Section 6, or by meeting one of two specified alternative technical standards (UN Regulation No. 138 as amended through the 01 series of amendments, or U.S. FMVSS Standard No. 141 / 49 CFR 571.141) (see cl 5.1; cl 7.1-7.2).

Key deployment dates are two-tiered: new model vehicles manufactured on or after 1 November 2025 must comply; all vehicles (i.e. including existing models) manufactured on or after 1 November 2026 must comply (cl 3.1.1-3.1.2). The standard applies to electrified vehicles in ADR categories MA, MB, MC, MD, ME and NA, NB, NC that can be propelled in reverse or at least one forward gear without the ICE operating (cl 3.1).

Appendix A incorporates by reference the text of UN Regulation No. 138 (Revision 1, 01 series of amendments) and its annexed methods and test procedures, including detailed instrumentation, microphone positions, test speeds and test-site requirements (Appendix A, Annex 3). The Australian standard subjects compliance to domestic variations set out in Section 6: it declares that compliance with specified administrative parts of Appendix A (Application for approval; Approval; Modifications; Conformity of production; Penalties for non‑conformity; Production definitively discontinued; Transitional provisions; and Names/addresses of Technical Services) is not required for the purposes of the Australian standard (cl 6.1). It also substitutes the term Approved Testing Facility for Technical Service in particular Annex 3 paragraphs (cl 6.2-6.3), and creates testing exemptions for some completed NB, NC and ME vehicles where an AVAS is identical to that fitted to a vehicle already entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles (cl 6.4). A vehicle may alternatively rely on a Reversing Alarm that meets ADR 42/05 cl 23.2 and the overall minimum sound limits in Appendix A, rather than fitting an AVAS that operates in reverse (cl 6.5).

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Commonwealth Coat of Arms

Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 113/00 – Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles) 2024

I, CAROL BROWN, Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, determine this national road vehicle standard under section 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018.

Dated: 17 January 2024

[SIGNED]

Carol Brown

Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport

CONTENTS

1. legislative provisions

2. FUNCTION

3. APPLICABILITY

4. DEFINITIONS

5. REQUIREMENTS

6. EXEMPTIONS AND ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURES

7. ALTERNATIVE STANDARDS

APPENDIX A

legislative provisions
Name of Standard 1. This standard is the Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 113/00 – Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles) 2024. 2. This standard may also be cited as Australian Design Rule 113/00 – Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles, the Australian Design Rule 113/00, or ADR 113/00.
Commencement 1. This standard commences on the day after it is registered.
FUNCTION
The function of this vehicle standard is to specify minimum sound emission requirements for passenger and goods vehicles that can be propelled for any period of time without an internal combustion engine operating, to aid pedestrians and other vulnerable road users in detecting the presence of those vehicles.
APPLICABILITY
This vehicle standard applies to all electrified MA, MB, MC, MD, ME NA, NB and NC category vehicles that can be propelled in at least one forward drive gear or in reverse without an internal combustion engine operating, from the dates set out in clauses 3.1.1 to 3.1.2 and the table under clause 3.3 below. 1. 1 November 2025 for all new model vehicles. 2. 1 November 2026 for all vehicles.
For the purposes of clauses 3.1.1 and 3.2.1 above, a “new model” is a vehicle model first produced with a ‘Date of Manufacture’ on or after the date prescribed in each clause.
Applicability Table

Vehicle Category ADR Category Code UN Category Code* Manufactured on or After** Acceptable Prior Rules
Moped 2 wheels LA L1 Not Applicable
Moped 3 wheels LB L2 Not Applicable
Motor cycle LC L3 Not Applicable
Motor cycle and sidecar LD L4 Not Applicable
Motor tricycle LE L5
LEM Not Applicable
LEP Not Applicable
LEG Not Applicable
Passenger car MA M1 1 November 2025 Nil
Forward-control passenger vehicle MB M1 1 November 2025 Nil
Off-road passenger vehicle MC M1 1 November 2025 Nil
Light omnibus MD M2
up to 3.5 tonnes ‘GVM’ and up to 12 seats MD1 1 November 2025 Nil
up to 3.5 tonnes ‘GVM’ and more than 12 seats MD2 1 November 2025 Nil
over 3.5 tonnes and up to 4.5 tonnes ‘GVM’ MD3 1 November 2025 Nil
over 4.5 tonnes and up to 5 tonnes ‘GVM’ MD4 1 November 2025 Nil
Heavy omnibus ME M3 1 November 2025 Nil
Light goods vehicle NA N1 1 November 2025 Nil
Medium goods vehicle NB N2
over 3.5 tonnes up to 4.5 tonnes ‘GVM’ NB1 1 November 2025 Nil
over 4.5 tonnes up to 12 tonnes ‘GVM’ NB2 1 November 2025 Nil
Heavy goods vehicle NC N3 1 November 2025 Nil
Very light trailer TA O1 Not Applicable
Light trailer TB O2 Not Applicable
Medium trailer TC O3 Not Applicable
Heavy trailer TD O4 Not Applicable

The category code may also be in the format L1, L2, L3 etc.

** See clauses 3.1 to 3.2

4. DEFINITIONS

4.1. For vehicle categories, definitions and meanings used in this standard, refer to:

4.1.1. Definitions in Appendix A of this standard or an alternative standard at clause 7; and where there is no conflict

4.1.2. Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule – Definitions and Vehicle Categories) 2005.

5. REQUIREMENTS

5.1. All electrified vehicles that can be propelled in the normal mode, in reverse or at least one forward drive gear, without an internal combustion engine operating must comply with either:

a) the requirements of Appendix A, as varied by Section 6 – Exemptions and Alternative Procedures; or

b) the technical requirements of the alternative standards set out in Section 7

6. EXEMPTIONS AND ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURES

6.1. Compliance with the following parts, sections and annexes of Appendix A is not required for the purposes of this standard:

Section 3 Application for approval

Section 5 Approval

Section 7 Modifications and extension of the type approval

Section 8 Conformity of production

Section 9 Penalties for non-conformity of production

Section 10 Production definitively discontinued

Section 11 Transitional provisions

Section 12 Names and addresses of Technical Services responsible for conducting approval tests and of Type Approval Authorities

6.2. In paragraph 3.2.1 of Annex 3 to Appendix A omit “in agreement with the Technical Service”.

6.3. In paragraph 4.2 of Annex 3 to Appendix A omit “Technical Service” , substitute “Approved Testing Facility”.

6.4. Completed NB, NC and ME category vehicles fitted with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) need not be tested in accordance with the following parts of Appendix A to demonstrate compliance to this vehicle standard:

Sections 6.2.1.2 (b) and (c);
Section 6.2.3, including sub sections 6.2.3.1 and 6.2.3.2; and
Annex 3, Section 2.3

if:

(a) the AVAS is identical in specification to an AVAS that is fitted to another vehicle of the same category that has been entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles; and

(b) the completed vehicle does not differ essentially from that vehicle with respect to:

the shape and the materials of the bodywork of the vehicle which affect the sound emitted;
the drivetrain including the source of propulsion;
the number of axles;
if applicable, the number and type(s) of sound emitting devices (hardware) of AVAS fitted on the vehicle; and
if applicable, the position of the AVAS on the vehicle.

6.5. A vehicle need not be fitted with an AVAS system that operates when the vehicle is propelled in reverse if a Reversing Alarm is fitted that operates over the full speed range required in paragraph 6.2 to Appendix A of this standard and:

6.5.1. meets the requirements of clause 23.2 of Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 42/05 – General Safety Requirements) 2018 and meets the overall minimum sound limit levels as per paragraph 6.2. of Appendix A to this standard; or

6.5.2. for applicable vehicle categories, meets the technical requirements United Nations Regulation No. 165 UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL OF AUDIBLE REVERSE WARNING DEVICES AND OF MOTOR VEHICLES WITH REGARD TO THEIR AUDIBLE REVERSE WARNING SIGNALS.

7. ALTERNATIVE STANDARDS

7.1. The technical requirements of United Nations Regulation No. 138 – UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL OF QUIET ROAD TRANSPORT VEHICLES WITH REGARD TO THEIR REDUCED AUDIBILITY, incorporating all amendments up to and including the 01 series of amendments.

7.2. The technical requirements of the United States Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 571 – Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards - Subpart B 49 CFR 571.141 Standard No. 141 – MINIMUM SOUND REQUIREMENTS FOR HYBRID AND ELECTRIC VEHICLES.

APPENDIX A

Text based on UN Regulation No. 138

(Revision 1, incorporating Amendments 1 to 2)

Uniform provisions concerning the approval of quiet road transport vehicles with regard to their reduced audibility

Incorporating by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, all valid text up to:

Supplement 1 to the 01 series of amendments – Date of entry into force: 11 January 2020

Supplement 2 to the 01 series of amendments – Date of entry into force: 3 January 2021

Regulation No. 138

Uniform provisions concerning the approval of quiet road transport vehicles with regard to their reduced audibility

Contents

Page

Regulation

1. Scope................................................................... 4

2. Definitions ........................................................ 4

3. Application for approval ............................................... 7

4. Markings ......................................................... 7

5. Approval ......................................................... 7

6. Specifications....................................................... 8

7. Modification and extension of approval of a vehicle type.......................... 10

8. Conformity of production............................................... 11

9. Penalties for non-conformity of production.................................... 11

10. Production definitively discontinued........................................ 11

11. Transitional provisions................................................. 11

12. Names and addresses of Technical Services responsible for conducting approval tests and of Type Approval Authorities.......................................... 12

Annexes

1 Communication..................................................... 13

Addendum to the Communication Form (Technical Information document) .............. 15

2 Arrangements of the approval mark........................................ 19

3 Methods and instruments for measuring the sound made by motor vehicles............... 20

Appendix: Figures and Flowcharts......................................... 33

1. Scope

This Regulation applies to electrified vehicles of categories M and N[1] which can be propelled in the normal mode, in reverse or at least one forward drive gear, without an internal combustion engine operating[2] in respect to their audibility.[3]

2. Definitions

For the purpose of this Regulation,

2.1. "Approval of a vehicle" means the approval of a vehicle type with regard to sound.

2.2. "Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System" (AVAS) means a component or set of components installed in vehicles with the primary purpose to fulfil the requirements of this Regulation.

2.3. "Vehicle type" means a category of motor vehicles which does not differ essentially in such respects as:

2.3.1. The shape and the materials of the bodywork of the vehicle which affect the sound level emitted;

2.3.2. The principle of the drivetrain (from the batteries to the wheels). Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 2.3.2. vehicles which differ with respect to overall gear ratios, battery type or the fitment of a range extender may be considered vehicles of the same type;

2.3.3. If applicable, the number and type(s) of sound emitting devices (hardware) of AVAS fitted on the vehicle.

2.3.4. If applicable, the position of the AVAS on the vehicle.

2.4. "Frequency Shift" means the variation of the frequency content of the AVAS sound as a function of the vehicle speed.

2.5. "Electrified vehicle" means a vehicle with a powertrain containing at least one electric motor or electric motor-generator.

2.5.1. "Pure Electric Vehicle" (PEV) means a motor vehicle with an electric motor as its sole mean of propulsion.

2.5.2. "Hybrid Electric Vehicle" (HEV) means a vehicle with a powertrain containing at least one electric motor or electric motor generator and at least one internal combustion engine as propulsion energy converters.

2.5.3. "Fuel Cell Vehicle"” (FCV) means a vehicle with a fuel cell and an electric machine as propulsion energy converters.

2.5.4. "Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle" (FCHV) means a vehicle with at least one fuel storage system and at least one Rechargeable Electric Energy Storage System (REESS) as propulsion energy storage system.

2.6. "Mass in running order" means the mass of the vehicle, with its fuel tank(s) filled to at least 90 per cent of its or their capacity/ies, including the mass of the driver (75 kg), of the fuel and liquids, fitted with the standard equipment in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and, when they are fitted, the mass of the bodywork, the cabin, the coupling and the spare wheel(s) as well as the tools.

2.7. "Pause function" means a mechanism to enable the driver to halt the operation of an AVAS.

2.8. "Front plane of the vehicle" means a vertical plane tangent to the leading edge of the vehicle.

2.9. "Rear plane of the vehicle" means a vertical plane tangent to the trailing edge of the vehicle.

2.10. Symbols and abbreviated terms and the paragraph in which they are first used.

Table 1

Symbols and Abbreviations

Symbol	Unit	Paragraph	Explanation
ICE	-	6.2.	Internal Combustion Engine
AA'	-	Annex 3 para.3.	Line perpendicular to vehicle travel which indicates the beginning of the zone to record sound pressure level during test
BB'	-	Annex 3 para.3.	Line perpendicular to vehicle travel which indicates end of the zone to record sound pressure level during test
PP'	-	Annex 3 para 3.	Line perpendicular to vehicle travel which indicates location of microphones
CC'	-	Annex 3 para.3.	Centreline of vehicle travel
vtest	km/h	Annex 3 para.3.	Target vehicle test velocity
j	-	Annex 3 para.3.	Index for single test run within standstill or constant speed test conditions
Lreverse	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.3.	Vehicle A-weighted sound pressure level for reversing test
Lcrs,10	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.3.	Vehicle A-weighted sound pressure level for constant speed test at 10 km/h.
Lcrs,20	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.3.	Vehicle A-weighted sound pressure level for constant speed test at 20 km/h.
Lcorr	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.2.3.2.	Background noise correction
Ltest,j	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.2.3.2.	A-weighted sound pressure level result of jth test run
Ltestcorr,j	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.2.3.2.	A-weighted sound pressure level result of jth test run corrected for background noise
Lbgn	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.2.3.1.	Background A-weighted sound pressure level.
∆Lbgn, p-p	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.2.3.2.	Range of maximum to minimum value of the representative background noise A-weighted sound pressure level over a defined time period.
∆L	dB(A)	Annex 3 para.2.3.2.	A-weighted sound pressure level of jth test result minus the A-weighted background noise level (∆L = Ltest,j - Lbgn)
vref	km/h	Annex 3 para.4.	Reference vehicle velocity used for calculating frequency shift percentage.
fj, speed	Hz	Annex 3 para.4.	Single frequency component at a given vehicle speed per sample segment, e.g. f1, 5
fref	Hz	Annex 3 para.4.	Single frequency component at reference vehicle speed
fspeed	Hz	Annex 3 para.4.	Single frequency component at a given vehicle speed, e.g. f5
lveh	m	Annex 3, Appendix	Length of vehicle

3. Application for approval

3.1. The application for approval of a vehicle type with regard to reduced audibility shall be submitted by its manufacturer or by a duly accredited representative.

3.2. It shall be accompanied by the undermentioned documents and the following particulars:

3.2.1. A description of the vehicle type with regard to the items mentioned in paragraph 2.3. above;

3.2.2. A description of the engine(s) as mentioned in Annex 1, Addendum;

3.2.3. If applicable, a list of the components constituting the AVAS;

3.2.4. If applicable, a drawing of the assembled AVAS and an indication of its position on the vehicle.

3.3. In the case of paragraph 2.3., the single vehicle, representative of the type in question, will be selected by the Technical Service conducting approval tests, in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer.

3.4. The Type Approval Authority shall verify the existence of satisfactory arrangements for ensuring effective control of the conformity of production before type approval is granted.

4. Markings

4.1. The components of the AVAS (if applicable) shall bear:

4.1.1. The trade name or mark of the manufacturer(s) of the AVAS components;

4.1.2. A designated identification number(s).

4.2. These markings shall be clearly legible and be indelible.

5. Approval

5.1. Type approval shall only be granted if the vehicle type meets the requirements of paragraphs 6. and 7. below.

5.1.1 In case of hybrid vehicles, equipped with an internal combustion engine: if the manufacturer can demonstrate to the Type Approval Authority that the vehicle cannot be assessed according to the provisions of the Regulation because the internal combustion engine used for direct propulsion will be operational during the specified tests within this regulation, this Regulation shall be deemed not applicable to this vehicle.

5.2. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. Its first two digits (at present 01 corresponding to the 01 series of amendments) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments made to this Regulation at the time of issue of the approval. The same Contracting Party shall not assign the same number to another vehicle type.

5.3. Notice of approval or of extension or of refusal or withdrawal of approval or of production definitively discontinued of a vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

5.4. There shall be affixed to every vehicle conforming to a vehicle type approved under this Regulation, conspicuously and in a readily accessible place specified on the approval form, an international approval mark consisting of:

5.4.1. A circle surrounding the letter "E" followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval;

5.4.2. The number of this Regulation, followed by the letter "R", a dash and the approval number to the right of the circle prescribed in paragraph 5.4.1.

5.5. If the vehicle conforms to a vehicle type approved, under one or more other Regulations annexed to the Agreement, in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation, the symbol prescribed in paragraph 5.4.1. need not be repeated. In such a case the regulation and approval numbers and the additional symbols of all the Regulations under which approval has been granted in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation shall be placed in vertical columns to the right of the symbol prescribed in paragraph 5.4.1.

5.6. The approval mark shall be clearly legible and indelible.

5.7. The approval mark shall be placed close to or on the vehicle data plate affixed by the manufacturer.

5.8. Annex 2 to this Regulation gives examples of arrangements of the approval mark.

6. Specifications

6.1. General specifications

For the purpose of this Regulation, the vehicle shall fulfil the following requirements:

6.2. Acoustics characteristics

The sound emitted by the vehicle type submitted for approval shall be measured by the methods described in Annex 3 to this Regulation.

The specifications of this Regulation are applicable for the speed range of greater than 0 km/h up to and inclusive 20 km/h. Operation of an AVAS is permitted at vehicle speeds outside the specification range. AVAS may be operational independent of the operation of an internal combustion engine inside or outside of the specified operation range.

If the vehicle that is not equipped with an AVAS fulfils the overall levels as specified in Table 2 below with a margin of +3 dB(A), the specification for one-third octave bands and the frequency shift do not apply.

6.2.1. Constant speed tests

6.2.1.1. The test speeds for approval are 10 km/h and 20 km/h.

6.2.1.2. When tested under the conditions of Annex 3 paragraph 3.3.2., the vehicle shall emit a sound:

(a) That has a minimum overall sound pressure level for the applicable test speed according to Table 2 of paragraph 6.2.8.;

(b) That has at least two of the one-third octave bands according to Table 2 of paragraph 6.2.8. At least one of these bands shall be below or within the 1,600 Hz one-third octave band;

(c) With minimum sound pressure levels in the chosen bands for the applicable test speed according to Table 2 of paragraph 6.2.8., column 3 or column 4.

6.2.1.3. If after a vehicle is tested in accordance with Annex 3 paragraph 3.3.2., for ten consecutive times within a series of measurements without recording a valid measurement because the vehicle's internal combustion engine (ICE) remains active or restarts and interferes with the measurements, the vehicle is exempted from this particular test.

6.2.2. Reversing test

6.2.2.1. When tested under the conditions of Annex 3 paragraph 3.3.3. the vehicle shall emit a sound that has a minimum overall sound pressure level according to Table 2 of paragraph 6.2.8., column 5.

6.2.2.2. If after a vehicle is tested in accordance with Annex 3, paragraph 3.3.3., for ten consecutive times within a series of measurements without recording a valid measurement because the vehicle's ICE remains active or restarts and interferes with the measurements, the vehicle is exempted from this particular test.

6.2.3. Frequency shift to signify acceleration and deceleration

6.2.3.1. The intention of frequency shift is to acoustically inform road users about the change in vehicle speed.

6.2.3.2. When tested under the conditions of Annex 3 paragraph 4, at least one tone within the frequency range as specified in paragraph 6.2.8. emitted by the vehicle shall vary proportionally with speed within each individual gear ratio by an average of at least 0.8 % per 1 km/h in the speed range from 5 km/h to 20 km/h inclusive when driving in forward direction. In case more than one frequency is shifted, only one frequency shift needs to fulfil the requirements.

6.2.4. Stationary sound

The vehicle may emit a sound when stationary.

6.2.5. Driver selectable sounds

The vehicle manufacturer may define alternative sounds which can be selected by the driver; each of these sounds shall be in compliance and approved with the provisions in paragraphs 6.2.1. to 6.2.3.

6.2.6 AVAS Sound Level Variation

If fitted, an AVAS may operate at different sound levels either automatically managed by the control unit or manually selected by the driver, each selected sound level shall be in compliance with the specifications outlined in paragraphs 6.2.1. to 6.2.3. and paragraphs 6.2.8. and 6.2.9.

6.2.7. Pause function

Any pause function as defined in paragraph 2.7. shall be prohibited.

6.2.8. Specifications on maximum sound level for AVAS

When tested under the conditions of Annex 3 paragraph 3.3.2., a vehicle which is equipped with an AVAS, shall not emit an overall sound level of more than 75 dB(A), if driving in forward direction.[4]

6.2.9. Minimum sound levels

The sound level measured in accordance with the provisions of Annex 3 to this Regulation, mathematically rounded to the nearest integer value, shall have at least the followings values:

Table 2

Minimum Sound Level Requirements in dB(A)

Frequency in Hz Constant Speed Test paragraph 3.3.2. (10 km/h) Constant Speed Test paragraph 3.3.2. (20 km/h) Reversing Test paragraph 3.3.3.
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Column 5
Overall 50 56 47
1/3rd Octave Bands 160 45 50
200 44 49
250 43 48
315 44 49
400 45 50
500 45 50
630 46 51
800 46 51
1,000 46 51
1,250 46 51
1,600 44 49
2,000 42 47
2,500 39 44
3,150 36 41
4,000 34 39
5,000 31 36

7. Modification and extension of approval of a vehicle type

7.1. Every modification of the vehicle type shall be notified to the Type Approval Authority which approved the vehicle type. The Type Approval Authority may then either:

7.1.1. consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciable adverse effect and that in any case the vehicle still complies with the requirements, or

7.1.2. require a further test report from the Technical Service responsible for conducting the tests.

7.2. Confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the alterations shall be communicated by the procedure specified in paragraph 5.3. above to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation.

7.3. The Type Approval Authority issuing the extension of approval shall assign a series number for such an extension and inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

8. Conformity of production

The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, Schedule 1 (E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.3) with the following requirements:

8.1. Vehicles approved according to this Regulation shall be manufactured so as to conform to the type approved and satisfy the requirements set forth in paragraph 6.2. above;

8.2. The Type Approval Authority which has granted type approval may at any time verify the conformity control methods applied in each production facility. The normal frequency of these verifications shall be one every two years.

9. Penalties for non-conformity of production

9.1. The approval granted in respect of a vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn if the requirements set forth above are not met.

9.2. If a Contracting Party to the Agreement applying this Regulation withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation, by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

10. Production definitively discontinued

If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a vehicle type approved in accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the Type Approval Authority which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication that Type Approval Authority shall inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

11. Transitional provisions

11.1. Until 30 June 2019 ISO 10844:1994 may be applied as an alternative to ISO 10844:2014 to check compliance of the test track as described in Annex 3, paragraph 2.1.2. of this Regulation.

11.2. As from the official date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse to grant or refuse to accept type approvals under this Regulation as amended by the 01 series of amendments.

11.3. As from 1 September 2019, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall not be obliged to accept type approvals to this Regulation in its original version, first issued after 1 September 2019.

11.4. Until 1 September 2021, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall accept type approvals to this Regulation in its original version, first issued before 1 September 2019.

11.5. As from 1 September 2021, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall not be obliged to accept type approvals to this Regulation in its original version.

11.6. Notwithstanding paragraphs 11.3. to 11.5. above, type approvals granted to this Regulation in its original version, which are not affected by the 01 series of amendments, shall remain valid and Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall accept them.

11.7. Notwithstanding the transitional provisions above, Contracting Parties whose application of this Regulation comes into force after the date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments are not obliged to accept type approvals which were granted in accordance with this Regulation in its original version and are only obliged to accept type approval granted in accordance with the 01 series of amendments.

11.8. Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall not refuse to grant type approvals, or extensions thereof, under this Regulation in its original version.

12. Names and addresses of Technical Services responsible for conducting approval tests and of Type Approval Authorities

The Contracting Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation shall communicate to the United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the Technical Services responsible for conducting approval tests and of the Type Approval Authorities which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent.

Annex 1

Communication

(maximum format: A4 (210 x 297 mm))

Text block advising the authority that has granted the type approval

[5]Example of the approval marking used to communicate a type approval to UN Regulation 138.

Concerning:[6] Approval granted

Approval extended

Approval refused

Approval withdrawn

Production definitively discontinued

of a vehicle type with regard to its sound emission pursuant to UN Regulation No. 138

Approval No. …………………….. Extension No. ……………………………

Section I

0.1. Make (trade name of manufacturer): ..........................

0.2. Vehicle Type:..........................................

0.3. Means of identification of type if marked on the vehicle:[7]............

0.3.1. Location of that marking:..................................

0.4. Category of vehicle:[8]....................................

0.5. Propulsion principle (PEV/HEV/FCV/FCHV):....................

0.6. Company name and address of manufacturer:.....................

0.7. Names and Address(es) of assembly plant(s): .....................

0.8. Name and address of the manufacturer's representative (if any):.........

Section II

1. Additional information (where applicable): See Addendum

2. Technical Service responsible for carrying out the tests: ..............

3. Date of test report: ......................................

4. Number of test report: ....................................

5. Remarks (if any): See Addendum

6. Place: ...............................................

7. Date: ...............................................

8. Signature: ............................................

Reasons for Extensions

Attachments:

Information package

Test report(s)

Addendum to the communication form No …

Technical Information

0. General

0.1. Make (trade name of manufacturer):

0.2. Means of identification of type, if marked on the vehicle:[9]

0.2.1. Location of that marking:

0.3 Category of vehicle:[10]

0.4. Company name and address of manufacturer:

0.5. Name and address of the manufacturer's representative (if any):

0.6. Name(s) and Address(es) of assembly plant(s):

1. Additional information

1.1. Power plant

1.1.1. Propulsion principle (PEV/HEV/FCV/FCHV) :

1.1.2. Manufacturer of the engine(s):

1.1.3. Manufacturer's engine code(s):

1.2. Description of AVAS (if applicable): ..........

1.2.1. Sound at Stationary (yes/no)

1.2.2. No. of driver selectable sounds (1/2/3/…)

2. Test results

2.1. Sound level of moving vehicle: .......... dB(A) at 10 km/h

2.2. Sound level of moving vehicle: .......... dB(A) at 20 km/h

2.3. Sound level of moving vehicle: …...... dB(A) in reversing

2.4. Frequency shift: .......... % /km/h

3. Remarks

Technical Information Document[11]

0. General

0.1. Make (trade name of manufacturer):...........................

0.2. Type

0.3. Means of identification of type, if marked on the vehicle:[12]

0.3.1. Location of that marking:..................................

0.4. Category of vehicle:[13]...................................

0.5. Company name and address of manufacturer:.....................

0.6. Name and address of the manufacturer's representative (if any):.........

0.8. Name(s) and Address(es) of assembly plant(s):....................

1. General construction characteristics of the vehicle

1.1. Photographs and/or drawings of a representative vehicle:.............

1.3. Number of axles and wheels:[14].............................

1.3.3. Powered axles (number, position, interconnection):.................

1.6. Position and arrangement of the engine(s):.......................

2. Masses and dimensions[15] (in kg and mm) (Refer to drawing where applicable):

2.4. Range of vehicle dimensions (overall):.........................

2.4.1 For chassis without bodywork:...............................

2.4.1.1. Length:..............................................

2.4.1.2. Width:...............................................

2.4.2. For chassis with bodywork

2.4.2.1. Length:..............................................

2.4.2.2. Width:...............................................

2.6. Mass in running order

minimum and maximum:..................................

3. Power plant[16]

3.1. Manufacturer of the engine(s):

3.1.1. Manufacturer's engine code(s) (as marked on the engine(s), or other means of identification):

3.3. Electric motor

3.3.1. Type of the electric motor (winding, excitation):

3.4. Engine or motor combination:

3.4.4. Electric motor (describe each type of electric motor separately)

3.4.4.1. Make:...............................................

3.4.4.2. Type:...............................................

3.4.4.3. Maximum power: …..kW

6. Suspension

6.6. Tyre size

6.6.2. Upper and lower limits of rolling radii

6.6.2.1. Axle 1:..............................................

6.6.2.2. Axle 2:..............................................

6.6.2.3. Axle 3:..............................................

6.6.2.4. Axle 4:..............................................

etc.

9. Bodywork

9.1. Type of bodywork:

9.2. Materials used and methods of construction:

12. Miscellaneous

12.5. Details of materials and components influencing the sound emission of the vehicle (if not covered by other items):

17. AVAS (if applicable)

17.1. Type of the AVAS (loudspeaker …):...........................

17.1.1. Make:...............................................

17.1.2. Type:...............................................

17.1.3. Geometrical characteristics (internal length and diameter)

17.2. The following documents are annexed to this communication:

17.2.1. ... drawings of the mountings of the sound emitting device(s),

17.2.2. ... drawings and diagrams giving the mounting positions and characteristics of the parts of the structure on which the devices are fitted.

17.2.3. ... over-all views of the front of the vehicle and of the compartment in which the device is situated and description of the component materials.

Signed: ...................................................

Position in company:...............................................

Date: ...................................................

Annex 2

Arrangements of the approval mark

Model A

(See paragraph 5.4. of this Regulation)

Example of an approval marking issued in accordance with this UN Regulation.

a = 8 mm min.

The above approval mark affixed to a vehicle shows that the vehicle type concerned has, with regard to its audibility, been approved in the Netherlands (E 4) pursuant to UN Regulation No. 138 under approval No. 012439.

The first two digits of the approval number indicate that UN Regulation No. 138 already included the 01 series of amendments when the approval was granted.

Model B

(See paragraph 5.5. of this Regulation)

Example of an approval mark for a type approval granted to this UN Regulation in conjunction with another UN Regulation.

a = 8 mm min.

The above approval mark affixed to a vehicle shows that the vehicle type concerned has been approved in the Netherlands (E 4) pursuant to UN Regulations Nos. 138 and 33.[17] The approval numbers indicate that, at the dates when the respective approvals were granted, UN Regulation No. 138 included the 01 series of amendments while UN Regulation No. 33 included the 01 series of amendments.

Annex 3

Methods and instruments for measuring the sound made by motor vehicles

1. Instrumentation

1.1. Instruments for acoustic measurement

1.1.1. General

The apparatus used for measuring the sound pressure level shall be a sound level meter or equivalent measurement system meeting the requirements of Class 1 instruments (inclusive of the recommended windscreen, if used). These requirements are described in IEC 61672-1-2013.

The entire measurement system shall be checked by means of a sound calibrator that fulfils the requirements of Class 1 sound calibrators in accordance with IEC 60942-2003.

Measurements shall be carried out using the time weighting "F" of the acoustic measurement instrument and the "A" frequency weighting also described in IEC 61672-1-2013. When using a system that includes a periodic monitoring of the A-weighted sound pressure level, a reading should be made at a time interval not greater than 30 ms.

When measurements are carried out for one-third octaves, the instrumentation shall meet all requirements of IEC 61260-1-2014, class 1.

When measurements are carried out for frequency shift, the digital sound recording system shall have at least a 16 bit quantization. The sampling rate and the dynamic range shall be appropriate to the signal of interest.

The instruments shall be maintained and calibrated in accordance with the instructions of the instrument manufacturer.

1.1.2. Calibration

At the beginning and at the end of every measurement session, the entire acoustic measurement system shall be checked by means of a sound calibrator as described in paragraph 1.1.1.. Without any further adjustment, the difference between the readings shall be less than or equal to 0,5 dB(A). If this value is exceeded, the results of the measurements obtained after the previous satisfactory check shall be discarded.

1.1.3. Compliance with requirements

Compliance of the sound calibrator with the requirements of IEC 60942-2003 shall be verified once a year. Compliance of the instrumentation system with the requirements of IEC 61672-3-2013 shall be verified at least every 2 years. All compliance testing shall be conducted by a laboratory which is authorized to perform calibrations traceable to the appropriate standards.

1.2. Instrumentation for speed measurements

The road speed of the vehicle shall be measured with instruments meeting specification limits of at least ±0,5 km/h when using continuous measuring devices.

If testing uses independent measurements of speed, this instrumentation shall meet specification limits of at least ±0,2 km/h.

1.3. Meteorological instrumentation

The meteorological instrumentation used to monitor the environmental conditions during the test shall meet the specifications of:

(a) ±1 °C or less for a temperature measuring device;

(b) ±1,0 m/s for a wind speed-measuring device;

(d) ±5 % for a relative humidity measuring device.

2. Acoustic environment, meteorological conditions, and background noise

2.1. Test site

2.1.1. General

The specifications for the test site provide the necessary acoustic environment to carry out the vehicle tests documented in this Regulation. Outdoor and indoor test environments that meet the specifications of this Regulation provide equivalent acoustic environments and produce results that are equally valid.

2.1.2. Outdoor testing

The test site shall be substantially level. For the measurement of vehicles in motion, the test track construction and surface shall meet the requirements of ISO 10844:2014. For the measurement of vehicles at a standstill, the test area shall be either:

(a) ISO 10844:2014; or

(b) Other dense asphalt; or

Within a radius of 50 m around the centre of the track, the space shall be free of large reflecting objects such as fences, rocks, bridges or buildings. The test track and the surface of the site shall be dry and free from absorbing materials such as powdery snow, or loose debris.

In the vicinity of the microphones, there shall be no obstacle that could influence the acoustic field and no person shall remain between the microphone and the noise source. The meter observer shall be positioned so as not to influence the meter reading. Microphones shall be located as specified in Figures 1 of the Appendix to this annex.

2.1.3. Indoor hemi anechoic or anechoic testing

This paragraph specifies conditions applicable when testing a vehicle, either operating as it would on the road with all systems operational, or operating in a mode where only the AVAS is operational.

The test facility shall meet requirements of ISO 26101:2012 with the following qualification criteria and measurement requirements appropriate to this test method.

Space to be deemed hemi-anechoic shall be defined as shown in Figure 3 of the Appendix to this annex.

For qualifying the hemi acoustic space, the following evaluation shall be conducted:

(a) Sound source location shall be place on the floor in middle of the space deemed to be anechoic;

(b) Sound source shall provide a broadband input for measurement;

(d) Microphone locations for evaluation shall be on a line from the source location to each position of microphones used for measurement in this Regulation as shown in Figure 3 of the Appendix to this annex. This is commonly referred to as the microphone transverse;

(e) A minimum of 10 points shall be used for evaluation on the microphone transverse line;

(f) The one third octave bands used to establish hemi-anechoic qualification shall be defined to cover the spectral range of interest.

The test facility shall have a cut-off frequency, as defined in ISO 26101:2012, lower than the lowest frequency of interest. The lowest frequency of interest is the frequency below which there is no signal content relevant to the measurement of sound emission for the vehicle under test.

2.2. Meteorological conditions

2.2.1. For outdoor facilities

Meteorological conditions are specified to provide a range of normal operating temperatures and to prevent abnormal readings due to extreme environmental conditions.

The meteorological instrumentation shall deliver data representative for the test site and shall be positioned adjacent to the test area at a height representative of the height of the measuring microphone.

A value representative of temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and barometric pressure shall be recorded during the measurement interval.

The measurements shall be made when the ambient air temperature is within the range from 5 °C to 40 °C.

The ambient temperature may of necessity be restricted to a narrower temperature range such that all key vehicle functionalities that can reduce vehicle noise emissions (e.g. start/stop, hybrid propulsion, battery propulsion, fuel-cell stack operation) are enabled according to manufacturer's specifications.

The tests shall not be carried out if the wind speed, including gusts, at microphone height exceeds 5 m/s, during the measurement interval.

2.2.2. For indoor facilities

Meteorological conditions are specified to provide a range of normal operating temperatures and to prevent abnormal readings due to extreme environmental conditions.

The meteorological instrumentation shall deliver data representative for the test site and values of temperature, relative humidity, and barometric pressure shall be recorded during the measurement interval.

The measurements shall be made when the ambient air temperature is within the range from 5 °C to 40 °C.

2.3. Background noise

2.3.1. Measurement criteria for A-weighted sound pressure level

The background, or ambient noise, shall be measured for a duration of at least 10 seconds. A 10 second sample taken from these measurements shall be used to calculate the reported background noise, ensuring the 10 seconds sample selected is representative of the background noise in absence of any transient disturbance. The measurements shall be made with the same microphones and microphone locations used during the test.

When testing in an indoor facility, the noise emitted by the roller-bench, chassis dynamometer or other test facility equipment, without the vehicle installed or present, inclusive of the noise caused by air handling of the facility and vehicle cooling, shall be reported as the background noise.

The recorded maximum A-weighted sound pressure level from both microphones during the 10 second sample shall be reported as the background noise, Lbgn, for both left and right microphones.

For each 10 second sample at each microphone, the maximum to minimum range of the background noise, ∆Lbgn, p-p, shall be reported.

The one-third-octave frequency spectrum, corresponding to the reported maximum level of background noise in the microphone with the highest background level, shall be reported.

As an aid for measurement and reporting of background noises see flowchart in Figure 4 of the Appendix to this annex.

2.3.2. Vehicle A-weighted sound pressure level measurement correction criteria

Depending on the level and the range of maximum to minimum value of the representative background noise A-weighted sound pressure level over a defined time period, the measured jth test result within a test condition, Ltest,j, shall be corrected according to the table below to obtain the background noise corrected level Ltestcorr,j. Except where noted, Ltestcorr,j = Ltest,j - Lcorr.

Background noise corrections to measurements are only valid when the range of the maximum to minimum background noise A-weighted sound pressure levels are 2 dB(A) or less.

In all cases where the range of the maximum to minimum background noise is greater than 2 dB(A), the maximum level of the background noise shall be 10 dB(A) or greater below the level of the measurement. When the maximum to minimum range of background noise is greater than 2 dB(A) and the level of the background noise is less than 10 dB(A) below the measurement, no valid measurement is possible.

Table 3

Correction for level of background noise when measuring vehicle A-weighted sound pressure level

Correction for background noise
Range of maximum to minimum value of the representative background noise A-weighted sound pressure level over a defined time period ∆Lbgn, p-p in dB(A) Sound pressure level of j-th test result minus background noise level∆L = Ltest,j - Lbgnin dB(A) Correction in dB(A)Lcorr
∆L > 10 no correction needed
< 2 8 ≤ ∆L <10 0,5
6 ≤ ∆L <8 1,0
4.5 ≤ ∆L <6 1,5
3 ≤ ∆L <4.5 2,5
∆L < 3 no valid measurement can be reported

If a sound peak obviously out of character with the general sound pressure level is observed, that measurement shall be discarded.

As an aid for measurement correction criteria see flowchart in Figure 5 of the appendix to this annex.

2.3.3. Background noise requirements when analysing in one-third-octave bands

When analysing one-third octaves according to this Regulation, the level of background noise in each one-third octave of interest, analysed according to paragraph 2.3.1., shall be at least 6 dB(A) below the measurement of the vehicle or AVAS under test in each one-third-octave band of interest. The A-weighted sound pressure level of the background noise shall be at least 10 dB(A) below the measurement of the vehicle or AVAS under test.

Background compensation is not permitted for one-third octave band measurements.

As an aid for background noise requirements when analysing in one-third-octave bands see flowchart in Figure 6 of the Appendix to this annex.

3. Test procedures for vehicle sound level

3.1. Microphone positions

The distance from the microphone positions on the microphone line PP' to the perpendicular reference line CC' as specified in Figure 1 and 2 of the Appendix to this annex on the test track or in an indoor test facility shall be 2,0 m ± 0,05 m.

The microphones shall be located 1,2 m ± 0,02 m above the ground level. The reference direction for free field conditions as specified in IEC 61672-1:2013 shall be horizontal and directed perpendicularly towards the path of the vehicle line CC'.

3.2. Conditions of the vehicle

3.2.1. General conditions

The vehicle shall be representative of vehicles to be put on the market as specified by the manufacturer in agreement with the Technical Service to fulfil the requirements of this Regulation.

Measurements shall be made without any trailer, except in the case of non-separable vehicles.

In the case of HEVs/FCHVs, the test shall be carried out in the most energy efficient mode so to avoid the restart of the ICE, e.g. all audio-, entertainment-, communication- and navigation-systems shall be switched off.

Before the measurements are started, the vehicle shall be brought to its normal operating conditions.

3.2.2. Battery state of charge

If so equipped, propulsion batteries shall have a state-of-charge sufficiently high to enable all key functionalities according to the manufacturer's specifications. Propulsion batteries shall be within their component-temperature window to enable all key functionalities that could reduce vehicle sound emissions. Any other type of rechargeable energy storage system shall be ready to operate during the test.

3.2.3. Multi-mode operation

If the vehicle is equipped with multiple driver selectable operating modes, the mode which provides the lowest sound emission during the test conditions of paragraph 3.3. shall be selected.

When the vehicle provides multiple operating modes that are automatically selected by the vehicle, it is the responsibility of the manufacturer to determine the correct manner of testing to achieve the minimum sound emission.

In cases where it is not possible to determine the vehicle operating mode providing the lowest sound emission, all modes shall be tested and the mode giving the lowest test result shall be used to report the vehicle sound emission in accordance with this Regulation.

3.2.4. Test mass of vehicle

Measurements shall be made on vehicles at mass in running order with an allowable tolerance of 15 per cent.

3.2.5. Tyre selection and condition

The tyres fitted to the vehicle during testing are selected by the vehicle manufacturer, and shall correspond to one of the tyre sizes and types designated for the vehicle by the vehicle manufacturer.

The tyres shall be inflated to the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer for the test mass of the vehicle.

3.3. Operating conditions

3.3.1. General

For each operating condition, the vehicle can be tested either indoor or outdoor.

For constant speed and reversing tests the vehicle may be tested either in motion or in simulated operating condition. For simulated vehicle operation, signals shall be applied to the vehicle to simulate actual in-use operation.

If the vehicle is equipped with an internal combustion engine, it shall be turned off.

3.3.2. Constant speed tests

These tests are conducted with the vehicle in forward motion or with the vehicle speed simulated by an external signal to the AVAS with the vehicle in standstill condition.

3.3.2.1. Constant speed tests in forward motion

For a vehicle tested in an outdoor facility, the path of the centreline of the vehicle shall follow line CC' as closely as possible with constant speed vtest throughout the entire test. The front plane of the vehicle shall pass from the line AA' at the start of the test and the rear plane of the vehicle shall pass from the line BB' at the end of the test, as shown in Figure 1a of the Appendix to this annex. Any trailer, which is not readily separable from the towing vehicle, shall be ignored when considering the crossing of the line BB'.

A vehicle tested in an indoor facility, shall be located with the front plane of the vehicle on the PP' line as shown in Figure 2a of the Appendix to this annex. The vehicle shall maintain a constant test speed, vtest for at least 5 seconds.

For constant speed test condition of 10 km/h, the test speed vtest shall be 10 km/h ± 2 km/h.

For constant speed test condition of 20 km/h, the test speed vtest shall be 20 km/h ± 1 km/h.

For automatic transmission vehicles, the gear selector shall be placed as specified by the manufacturer for normal driving.

For manual transmission vehicles, the gear selector shall be placed in the highest gear which can achieve the target vehicle speed with constant engine speed.

3.3.2.2. Constant speed tests simulated by an external signal to the AVAS with the vehicle in standstill condition

A vehicle tested in an indoor or outdoor facility, shall be located with the front plane of the vehicle on the PP' line as shown in Figure 2b of the Appendix to this annex. The vehicle shall maintain a constant simulated test speed, vtest for at least 5 seconds.

For constant speed test condition of 10 km/h, the simulated test speed vtest shall be 10 km/h ± 0,5 km/h.

For constant speed test condition of 20 km/h, the simulated test speed vtest shall be 20 km/h ± 0,5 km/h

3.3.3. Reversing tests

These tests may be conducted with the vehicle in rearward motion or with the vehicle speed simulated by an external signal to the AVAS or with the vehicle in standstill condition.

3.3.3.1. Reversing test in motion

For a vehicle tested in an outdoor facility, the path of the centreline of the vehicle shall follow line CC' as closely as possible with constant speed vtest throughout the entire test. The rear plane of the vehicle shall pass from the line AA' at the start of the test and the front plane of the vehicle shall pass from the line BB' at the end of the test, as shown on Figure 1b of the Appendix to this annex. Any trailer, which is not readily separable from the towing vehicle, shall be ignored when considering the crossing of the line BB'.

A vehicle tested in an indoor facility, shall be located with the rear plane of the vehicle on the PP' line as shown in Figure 2b of the Appendix to this annex. The vehicle shall maintain a constant test speed, vtest for at least 5 seconds.

For constant speed test condition of 6 km/h, the test speed vtest shall be 6 km/h ± 2 km/h.

For automatic transmission vehicles, the gear selector shall be placed as specified by the manufacturer for normal reverse driving.

For manual transmission vehicles, the gear selector shall be placed in the highest reverse gear which can achieve the target vehicle speed with constant engine speed.

3.3.3.2. Reversing test simulated by an external signal to the AVAS with the vehicle in standstill condition

A vehicle tested in an indoor or outdoor facility, shall be located with the rear plane of the vehicle on the PP' line as shown in Figure 2b of the Appendix to this annex. The vehicle shall maintain a constant simulated test speed, vtest for at least 5 seconds.

For constant test condition of 6 km/h, the simulated test speed vtest shall be 6 km/h ± 0,5 km/h.

3.3.3.3. Reversing test in standstill condition

A vehicle tested in an indoor or outdoor facility, shall be located with the rear plane of the vehicle on the PP' line as shown in Figure 2b of the Appendix to this annex.

The vehicle's gear selection control shall be in the reverse position and the brake released for the test.

3.4. Measurement readings and reported values

At least four measurements for each test condition shall be made on both sides of the vehicle.

The first four valid consecutive measurement results for each test condition, within 2,0 dB(A) per side, allowing for the deletion of non-valid results, shall be used for the calculation of the intermediate or final result.

If a sound peak obviously out of character with the general sound pressure level is observed, that measurement shall be discarded. For measurement of a vehicle in motion (forward and reversing) outdoor, the maximum A-weighted sound pressure level indicated during each passage of the vehicle between AA' and PP' (Ltest,j) shall be noted for each microphone position, to the first significant digit after the decimal place (for example XX,X). For measurement of a vehicle in motion indoor and in standstill (forward and reversing), the maximum A-weighted sound pressure level indicated during each period of 5 seconds for each microphone position, Ltest,j, shall be noted, to the first significant digit after the decimal place (for example XX,X).

Ltest,j shall be corrected according to paragraph 2.3.2. to obtain Ltestcorr,j.

For each maximum A-weighted sound pressure level, the corresponding one-third-octave spectrum shall be reported for each microphone position. No background correction shall be applied to any measured one-third octave result.

3.5. Data compilation and reported results

For each test condition described in paragraph 3.3., the background corrected results, Ltestcorr,j, and the corresponding one third octave spectra of both sides of the vehicle individually shall be arithmetically averaged and rounded to the first decimal place.

The final A-weighted sound pressure level results Lcrs 10, Lcrs 20 and Lreverse to be reported are the lower values of the two averages of both sides, rounded to the nearest integer. The final one third octave spectra to be reported are the spectra corresponding to the same side as the reported A-weighted sound pressure level.

4. Test procedures for frequency shift

4.1. General

The provisions on frequency shift outlined in 6.2.3 of the main body shall be checked using one of the following test methods to be selected by the manufacturer:

Method (A) Test of the complete vehicle in motion on an outdoor test track

Method (B) Test of the complete vehicle in standstill condition on an outdoor test track with simulation of the vehicle movement to the AVAS by an external signal generator

Method (C) Test of the complete vehicle in motion in an indoor facility on a chassis dynamometer

Method (D) Test of the complete vehicle in standstill condition in an indoor facility with simulation of the vehicle movement to the AVAS by an external signal generator

Method (E) Test of the AVAS without a vehicle in an indoor facility with simulation of the vehicle movement to the AVAS by an external signal generator

The facility requirements as well as the vehicle and test setup specifications are the same as given in paragraphs 1., 2., 3.1. and 3.2. of this annex according to the selected test method unless the following paragraphs below provide different or additional specifications.

No background noise correction shall be applied to any measurement. Special care shall be given for outdoor measurements. Any interference of the background noise shall be avoided. If a sound peak obviously out of character with the general signal is observed, that measurement shall be discarded.

4.2. Instrumentation and signal processing

Analyser settings shall be agreed between the manufacturer and the Technical Service to provide data according to these requirements.

The sound analysis system shall be capable of performing spectral analysis at a sampling rate and over a frequency range containing all frequencies of interest. The frequency resolution shall be sufficiently precise to differentiate between the frequencies of the various test conditions.

4.3. Test methods

4.3.1. Method (A) – Outdoor facility and vehicle in motion

The vehicle shall be operated in the same outdoor test facility and according to the same general operating condition as for the vehicle constant speed testing (paragraph 3.3.2.).

The vehicle sound emission shall be measured at target speeds of 5 km/h to 20 km/h in steps of 5 km/h with a tolerance of ±2 km/h for the speed of 10 km/h or less and of ±1 km/h for any other speeds. The speed of 5 km/h is the lowest target speed. If the vehicle cannot be operated at this speed within the given precision, the lowest possible speed below 10 km/h shall be used instead.

4.3.2. Method (B) and Method (D) – Outdoor/Indoor facility and vehicle in standstill

The vehicle shall be operated in a test facility where the vehicle can accept an external vehicle speed signal to the AVAS simulating vehicle operation. The microphone locations shall be as for the complete vehicle test conditions as specified in Figure 2a of the Appendix to this annex. The front plane of the vehicle shall be placed on line PP'.

The vehicle sound emission shall be measured at simulated speeds of 5 km/h to 20 km/h in steps of 5 km/h with a tolerance of ±0.5 km/h for each test speed.

4.3.3. Method (C) – Indoor facility and vehicle in motion

The vehicle shall be installed in an indoor test facility where the vehicle can operate on a chassis dynamometer in the same manner as outdoors. All microphone locations shall be as for the vehicle test conditions as specified in Figure 2a of the Appendix to this annex. The front plane of the vehicle shall be placed on line PP'.

4.3.4. Method (E)

The AVAS shall be mounted rigidly in an indoor facility, by means of the equipment indicated by the manufacturer. The microphone of the measuring instrument shall be placed at 1 m distance from the AVAS in the direction where the subjective sound level is greatest and placed at a height of approximately the same level as the sound radiation of the AVAS.

The sound emission shall be measured at simulated speeds of 5 km/h to 20 km/h in steps of 5 km/h with a tolerance of ±0.5 km/h for each test speed.

4.4. Measurement Readings

4.4.1. Test Method (A)

At least four measurements shall be made at every speed specified in paragraph 4.3.1.. The emitted sound shall be recorded during each passage of the vehicle between AA' and BB' for each microphone position. From each measurement sample a segment taken from AA until -1 meter before PP' shall be cut out for further analysis.

4.4.2. Test Methods (B), (C), (D) and (E)

The emitted sound shall be measured at every speed specified in correlated paragraphs above for at least 5 seconds.[18]

4.5. Signal Processing

For each recorded sample the average auto power spectrum shall be determined, using a Hanning window and at least 66.6 per cent overlap averages. The frequency resolution shall be chosen to be sufficiently narrow as to allow a separation of the frequency shift per target condition. The reported speed per sample segment is the average vehicle speed over the time of the sample segment rounded to the first decimal place.

In case of test method (A) the frequency that is intended to be changed with the speed shall be determined per sample segment. The reported frequency per target condition fspeed shall be the mathematical average of the frequencies determined per measurement sample and rounded to the nearest integer. The reported speed per target condition shall be the mathematical average of the four sample segments.

Table 4

Analysis of the shifted frequency per target condition per side

Target speed Test run per target condition Reported speed (average per sample segment) Determined frequency of interest(fj, speed) Reported Speed per target condition (average of the reported speeds) Reported frequency of interest per target condition (fspeed)
km/h No km/h Hz km/h Hz
5 1
2
3
4
10 1
2
3
4
15 1
2
3
4
20 1
2
3
4

For all other test methods the derived frequency spectrum shall directly be used for the further calculation.

4.5.1. Data compilation and reported results

The frequency intended to be shifted shall be used for the further calculation. The frequency of the lowest reported test speed rounded to the nearest integer is taken as the reference frequency fref.

For the other vehicle speeds, the corresponding shifted frequencies fspeed rounded to the nearest integer shall be taken from the spectra analysis. Calculate del f, the frequency shift of the signal according to equation (1):

del f = {[(fspeed - fref)/(vtest – vref)]/fref} · 100 equation (1)

where

fspeed is the frequency at a given speed value;

fref is the frequency at the reference speed of 5 km/h or the lowest reported speed;

vtest is the vehicle speed, actual or simulated, corresponding to the frequency fspeed;

vref is the vehicle speed, actual or simulated, corresponding to the frequency fref;

The results shall be reported using the following table:

Table 5

Report table, to be completed for each frequency analysed

Test Results at Target Speeds
5 km/h (Reference) 10 km/h 15 km/h 20 km/h
Reported Speed km/h
Frequency, fspeed, Left Side Hz
Frequency, fspeed, Right Side Hz
Frequency Shift, Left Side % n.a.
Frequency Shift, Right Side % n.a.

Annex 3 – Appendix

Figures and flowcharts

Figures 1a and 1b

Measuring positions for vehicles in motion outdoor

Figure 1a. This diagram specifies the measuring positions for a vehicle being tested in forward motion outdoor. The vehicle travels forward for 20 metres with the microphones set up 10 metres from the start point and two metres either of the vehicle.	Figure 1b. This diagram specifies the measuring positions for a vehicle being tested in reverse motion outdoor. The vehicle travels forward for 20 metres with the microphones set up 10 metres from the start point and two metres either of the vehicle.
1a. Forward	1b. Reverse

Figures 2a and 2b

Measuring positions for vehicles in motion indoor and in standstill

Figure 2a. This diagram specifies the measuring positions for a vehicle being tested in forward motion indoor and in stand still . The microphones are set up two metres either side of front plane of the vehicle.	Figure 2b. This diagram specifies the measuring positions for a vehicle being tested in reverse motion indoor and in stand still . The microphones are set up two metres either side of rear plane of the vehicle.
2a. Forward	2b. Reverse

Figure 3

Minimum space to be qualified as Semi-Anechoic chamber

Figure 3. This diagrams specifies the minimum space requirements for a semi-anechoic chamber. It must have a height of 1.2m, a width of 4 metres and be the length of the vehicle.

Figure 4

Background Noise Parameter

Figure 4. This diagram is a flowchart outlining the steps required to determine the background noise parameters. The background noise is measured for 10 seconds and remeasure if there is transient disturbance. If there is no transient disturbance, the maximum A-weight sound pressure levels from the left and right microphones, 1/3 octave frequency and maximum to minimum range of background noise is reported.

Figure 5

Vehicle A-Weighted sound pressure level measurement correction criteria

Figure 5. Flowchart outline the correction criteria for the Vehicle A-Weighted sound pressure level measurement. If the range of maximum to minimum value of the representative background noise A-weighted sound pressure level over a defined time period is less than or equal to 2dB an Sound Press Level correction is required. If the A-weighted sound pressure level of the test minus the A-weighted background noise is less than 10dB the measurement is invalid. If the result is valid, the A-weighted sound pressure level result of each test run corrected for background noise is reported.

Figure 6

Background noise requirements for analysis in one-third-octave bands

Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the background noise requirements for analysing in one-third octave bands. If the background level in each one-third octave band is less than 6dB than the corresponding one-third octave band measured, the measurement is not valid. If the overall sound pressure level is less than 10 dB than the overall sound pressure level of the background noise measured, the measurement is not valid. If both criteria are met, the results for each band of interest are reported.

Figure 7a

Test procedures for measurement of frequency shift

Figure 7a is a flowchart illustrating the test procedures for measuring the frequency shift. The instrumentation and analyser settings are determined by the method and nature of the signal measured.

Figure 7b

Test procedures for measurement of frequency shift, Method A

Figure 7b is a flowchart illustrating the test procedure for the measurement of frequency shift using Method A. Four measurements are carried at each speed specified. Data from the left and right microphones are analyzed using a Hanning window with a 66.6 per cent over lap and calculated by averaging the frequency determined per measurement sample.

Figure 7c

Test procedures for measurement of frequency shift, Methods B, C, D, and E

Figure 7c is a flowchart illustrating the test precdures for measuring freuency shsift for methods B, C, D or E. One measurement at each speed is carried out over five seconds. The data from the left and right microphones is analysed using a Hanning window with at least a 66/6 per cent overlap. The speed and frequency information at each vehicle speed is reported and the frequency shift is calculated using the equation in clause 4.5.1.

[1] As defined in the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3.), document ECE/TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev.6, para. 2 - www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29resolutions.html

[2] At this stage, only acoustic measures shall be developed in order to overcome the concern of reduced audible signals from electrified vehicles. After finalisation, the appropriate Working Party (GR) shall be assigned with the enhancement of the Regulation in order to develop alternative, non-acoustic measures, taking into account active safety systems such as, but not limited to, pedestrian detection systems. To provide for environmental protection, this Regulation specifies also maximum limits.

[3] See paragraph 5.1.1. for more detailed specifications on the application.

[4] The maximum overall sound pressure level of 75 dB(A) measured at a distance of 2 m is corresponding to the overall sound pressure level of 66 dB(A) measured at a distance of 7.5 m. The limit value of 66 dB(A) at a distance of 7.5 m is the lowest permitted maximum value in Regulations established under the 1958 Agreement.

1 Distinguishing number of the country which has granted/extended/refused/withdrawn approval (see approval provisions in the Regulation).

[6] Delete what does not apply.

[7] If the means of identification of type contains characters not relevant to describe the vehicle, types covered by the type-approval certificate such characters shall be represented in the documentation by the symbol: '? ' (e.g. ABC??123??).

[8] As defined in R.E.3.

[9] If the means of identification of type contains characters not relevant to describe the vehicle, types covered by the type-approval certificate such characters shall be represented in the documentation by the symbol: '? ' (e.g. ABC??123??).

[10] As defined in R.E.3.

[11] Manufactures may automatically create this Technical Information Document by selecting the relevant items from the commonly agreed matrix. These items will appear in the Technical Information Document under the same numbers as in the matrix. Thus, the numbering of items in the Technical Information Document may not necessarily be continuous.

[12] If the means of identification of type contains characters not relevant to describe the vehicle, types covered by the type-approval certificate such characters shall be represented in the documentation by the symbol: '? ' (e.g. ABC??123??).

[13] As defined in R.E.3.

[14] Only for the purpose of defining "off-road vehicles".

[15] (a) Standard ISO 612: 1978 — Road vehicles — Dimensions of motor vehicles and towed vehicles - terms and definitions.

(b) Where there is one version with a normal cab and another with a sleeper cab, both sets of masses and dimensions are to be stated.

[16] In the case of a vehicle that can run either on petrol, diesel, etc., or also in combination with another fuel, items shall be repeated. In the case of non-conventional engines and systems, particulars equivalent to those referred here shall be supplied by the manufacturer.

[17] The latter number is given as an example only.

[18] Note by the secretariat: as an aid for measurement of frequency shift see flowchart in Figure 7a, 7b or 7c of the Appendix to this annex.

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Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 113/00 – Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles) 2024

I, CAROL BROWN, Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, determine this national road vehicle standard under section 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018.

Dated: 17 January 2024

[SIGNED]

Carol Brown

Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport

CONTENTS

1. legislative provisions

2. FUNCTION

3. APPLICABILITY

4. DEFINITIONS

5. REQUIREMENTS

6. EXEMPTIONS AND ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURES

7. ALTERNATIVE STANDARDS

APPENDIX A

legislative provisions
Name of Standard 1. This standard is the Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 113/00 – Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles) 2024. 2. This standard may also be cited as Australian Design Rule 113/00 – Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles, the Australian Design Rule 113/00, or ADR 113/00.
Commencement 1. This standard commences on the day after it is registered.
FUNCTION
The function of this vehicle standard is to specify minimum sound emission requirements for passenger and goods vehicles that can be propelled for any period of time without an internal combustion engine operating, to aid pedestrians and other vulnerable road users in detecting the presence of those vehicles.
APPLICABILITY
This vehicle standard applies to all electrified MA, MB, MC, MD, ME NA, NB and NC category vehicles that can be propelled in at least one forward drive gear or in reverse without an internal combustion engine operating, from the dates set out in clauses 3.1.1 to 3.1.2 and the table under clause 3.3 below. 1. 1 November 2025 for all new model vehicles. 2. 1 November 2026 for all vehicles.

The standard organises into a few interlocking legal-technical concepts: applicability, route(s) to compliance, technical requirements for acoustic performance, testing and measurement norms, administrative variations and exemptions, and permitted alternative standards.

Applicability: The ADR applies specifically to "electrified" vehicles , vehicles containing at least one electric motor/generator , in certain ADR categories (MA, MB, MC, MD, ME, NA, NB, NC) that can be propelled with the ICE off (cl 3.1). It excludes many motorcycle/moped categories listed in the Applicability Table (cl 3.3 table entries). It phases in by date: new model threshold for 1 November 2025, full fleet for 1 November 2026 (cl 3.1.1-3.1.2). Definitions cross‑refer to Appendix A and to the Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule - Definitions and Vehicle Categories) 2005 (cl 4.1.1-4.1.2).

Routes to compliance: Manufacturers must comply either with Appendix A (the UN Regulation No. 138 text as included) as varied by Section 6 of this ADR or with the stated alternative standards: UN Regulation No. 138 incorporating all amendments up to and including the 01 series of amendments (cl 7.1), or U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 141 (cl 7.2). Clause 5.1 expresses this binary compliance choice.

Core technical objectives: The function statement (cl 2.1) defines the standard’s measurable objective: specify minimum sound emission requirements for vehicles that can be propelled without an ICE, to aid detection by pedestrians and other vulnerable road users. That objective is implemented as acoustical minima/maxima, frequency content and dynamic frequency shift requirements in Appendix A (paras 6.2.1-6.2.9).

Measurement regime: Annex 3 to Appendix A supplies the full test regime. It prescribes instrumentation quality (Class 1 sound level meters to IEC 61672-1:2013; calibration to IEC 60942:2003; one-third-octave analysis IEC 61260-1:2014), microphone geometry (2.0 m ±0.05 m lateral distance from vehicle centreline, 1.2 m ±0.02 m height), test speeds (10 km/h ± tolerances; 20 km/h ± tolerances; reversing 6 km/h), mass in running order tolerances (±15%), tyre selection rules, battery state-of-charge and mode selection requirements, background noise measurement and correction rules, and precise averaging and rounding rules to derive reported Lcrs,10, Lcrs,20 and Lreverse (Annex 3 paras 1-3).

Acoustic requirements in brief: minimum overall A-weighted levels 50 dB(A) at 10 km/h and 56 dB(A) at 20 km/h (Table 2), minimum one‑third‑octave band levels across specified bands (Table 2 columns), reversing minimum 47 dB(A) (Table 2 column 5), capped maximum 75 dB(A) overall forward (para 6.2.8), at least two one‑third‑octave bands including at least one band at or below 1,600 Hz (para 6.2.1.2(b)), and frequency shift of at least 0.8% per 1 km/h from 5-20 km/h (para 6.2.3.2). If a vehicle without AVAS already meets overall levels with a +3 dB(A) margin, some spectral and frequency-shift specs do not apply (para 6.2, second sentence).

Administrative variations and exemptions: Section 6 of the ADR modifies the UN text for domestic operation. It removes the requirement to comply with several administrative parts of Appendix A (cl 6.1), omits the phrase "in agreement with the Technical Service" in Annex 3 para 3.2.1 (cl 6.2), substitutes "Approved Testing Facility" for "Technical Service" in Annex 3 para 4.2 (cl 6.3), allows certain completed NB, NC and ME vehicles to avoid specified testing if their AVAS is identical to that of a vehicle on the Register of Approved Vehicles and the completed vehicle does not differ essentially in listed respects (cl 6.4), and permits substitution of a Reversing Alarm that meets ADR 42/05 cl 23.2 and the overall minimum sound limits (cl 6.5).

Registration and marking: Appendix A sets out UN-style approval marking and communication/technical information forms (Annex 1 and Annex 2) and procedures for approval notification. However, since Section 6.1 removes some of those Appendix A administrative sections for the purposes of this ADR, the application and approval steps as written in Appendix A (Sections 3 and 5) are not strictly required domestically, although Appendix A’s technical reporting forms remain part of the incorporated material where Appendix A is followed.

Interaction with international regimes: Appendix A’s text is UN Regulation No. 138 under the 1958 Agreement. The ADR allows reliance on that UN text or two alternatives (UN 138 01 series or U.S. FMVSS 141) (cl 7). Appendix A itself contains transitional provisions relating to acceptance of earlier approvals under the 01 series of amendments (Appendix A para 11). The ADR thus connects domestic compliance to international type‑approval frameworks but also carves out specific domestic variations.

Primary obligations fall on vehicle manufacturers and their authorised representatives: the instrument requires manufacturers to supply vehicles that meet the acoustic requirements either by fitting an AVAS compliant with Appendix A as modified or by meeting the alternative standards (cl 5.1; Appendix A para 3.1). The Appendix’s application/communication forms and Technical Information Document (Annex 1) describe the technical data the manufacturer must supply where the UN procedure is followed.

Manufacturers who produce completed NB, NC and ME category vehicles gain a conditional compliance relief: if a completed vehicle’s AVAS is identical to that of another vehicle of the same category already entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles, and if the completed vehicle does not differ essentially in the listed respects (shape/materials affecting sound; drivetrain and propulsion source; number of axles; number/type/position of AVAS devices), then that completed vehicle need not be tested against specified parts of Appendix A (cl 6.4). This materially affects manufacturers of heavy/medium goods vehicles and heavy omnibuses that purchase or adopt previously‑approved AVAS hardware.

Approved Testing Facilities and Type Approval Authorities are decisionmakers under the testing and, depending on whether a manufacturer follows Appendix A, approval regimes. The standard replaces certain references to Technical Service with Approved Testing Facility (cl 6.3), and Annex 3 repeatedly references the Technical Service and Type Approval Authority roles (Appendix A Annex 3 paras 3.2.1, 3.3, 5.1, 7.1). Where Appendix A administrative sections are not required domestically (cl 6.1), the practical effect is that test execution, certification, and any domestic approvals will run according to the Australian arrangements established under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 and related ADR processes; the instrument’s preamble records that the determination is made under s 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act.

Importers and distributors of electrified vehicles are affected because the standard sets mandatory compliance dates and test/label requirements for new models and subsequently for all vehicles (cl 3.1). Importers must ensure vehicles they place on the Australian market comply from the specified manufacture dates.

Repairers, bodybuilders and upfitters are indirectly affected: where bodywork or drivetrain alterations affect the sound emission characteristics listed in the vehicle‑type definition (Appendix A para 2.3.1-2.3.4), they may change whether a vehicle is considered the same "vehicle type" and thereby trigger additional testing or a loss of the relief in cl 6.4.

Pedestrians and vulnerable road users are passive stakeholders from a design objective perspective. The standard’s stated function (cl 2.1) is to improve detectability by such users via minimum sound requirements and frequency cues. The market impact for consumers may include potential incremental vehicle cost from AVAS hardware, ongoing maintenance of those systems, and potential changes to vehicle acoustic signature (driver‑selectable sounds and sound level choices remain possible but must meet the technical specs (para 6.2.5-6.2.6)).

Testing and test facility operators bear the instrumentation and calibration burden: Annex 3 sets Class 1 instrumentation standards (IEC 61672-1:2013), sound calibrator compliance (IEC 60942:2003) and calibration/verification intervals (Annex 3 paras 1.1.1-1.1.3). Test sites must meet ISO 10844:2014 for outdoor motion tests or meet ISO 26101:2012 for hemi-anechoic indoor facilities (Annex 3 para 2.1.2 and 2.1.3). Those specifications allocate costs to test providers or to manufacturers where they commission tests.

Regulatory bodies and Type Approval Authorities may have fewer direct obligations under the UN approval sections that the ADR says are not required domestically (cl 6.1), but they remain relevant to the extent manufacturers opt to follow Appendix A and where international approvals and marking are relevant (Appendix A paras 5.1-5.8).

Finally, entities that previously relied on quiet vehicle characteristics (for example, businesses using electrified fleets in noise-sensitive environments) will see behavioural constraints: any pause functions that mute AVAS are expressly prohibited (para 6.2.7); AVAS levels may be variable but each sound level setting must comply with the minima/maxima and spectral requirements (para 6.2.6).

Duties on manufacturers and vehicle submitters

Fit or ensure an AVAS or acceptable Reversing Alarm on applicable electrified vehicles, and ensure the system meets either Appendix A technical provisions (as varied by Section 6) or the listed alternative standards (cl 5.1; cl 7.1-7.2). The duty is to one of those compliance paths; the instrument does not permit a hybrid of requirements except as the specified variations allow.
Meet the acoustic minima and maxima and spectral/frequency-shift requirements in Appendix A if choosing that path: overall minimum A-weighted levels (Table 2), minimum one-third-octave band levels (Table 2), reversing minimums (Table 2 column 5), frequency shift of at least 0.8% per 1 km/h between 5-20 km/h (Appendix A para 6.2.3.2), and not exceed 75 dB(A) overall forward (para 6.2.8). One-third-octave band minima and the requirement that at least one qualifying band be at or below 1,600 Hz must be observed (para 6.2.1.2(b)).
Follow Annex 3 test procedures (instrumentation, microphone positions, mass in running order, tyre selection, battery SOC, background noise measurement and correction rules, measurement reading averaging, rounding and reporting) when relying on Appendix A testing (Appendix A Annex 3 paras 1-4). These duties extend to retaining and producing test data and the Technical Information Document if the UN procedure is followed (Annex 1).
Where the vehicle uses multiple operating modes, select for testing the mode producing the lowest sound emission (Annex 3 para 3.2.3). Ensure propulsion batteries state-of-charge and temperature permit all functionalities that might reduce emissions during test (Annex 3 para 3.2.2).
If relying on the NB/NC/ME completed vehicle testing exemption (cl 6.4), ensure the AVAS is identical to that on an entered vehicle and that the completed vehicle does not differ essentially in the enumerated respects; document that the eligible vehicle is on the Register of Approved Vehicles.
For reversing, either provide an AVAS that operates in reverse or fit a Reversing Alarm that meets ADR 42/05 cl 23.2 and the overall minimum sound limits in Appendix A (cl 6.5).

Duties on testing providers and Approved Testing Facilities

Use Class 1 instrumentation and meet calibration, sampling, meteorological and site specifications in Annex 3 (Annex 3 paras 1.1-2.2). Calibrate system at beginning and end of every measurement session and ensure annual and biennial verification as specified (Annex 3 paras 1.1.2-1.1.3).
Position microphones and measure according to figure geometries and tolerances (Annex 3 para 3.1), and apply the background noise correction and band‑analysis rules set out (Annex 3 para 2.3).

Rights and processes for manufacturers

Choice of compliance standard: manufacturers may choose either the Appendix A route (as varied) or one of the two alternative standards (cl 5.1; cl 7.1-7.2). This permits strategic selection of the testing regime that best suits a manufacturer’s existing homologation pathways.
Driver selectable sounds are permitted provided each selectable sound complies with the Regulation’s requirements (para 6.2.5). AVAS may operate at different sound levels either automatically or via manual selection, again on condition each selected level complies (para 6.2.6).
Exemption rights: for completed NB/NC/ME vehicles meeting the criteria, manufacturers can avoid testing certain Appendix A parts (cl 6.4), potentially reducing cost and delay.

Powers and responsibilities of authorities

Type Approval Authority and analogous authorities in the UN text can assign approval numbers and require conformity control arrangements (Appendix A paras 5.1-5.4; 3.4). However, the ADR removes the domestic requirement to comply with some of these Appendix A sections (cl 6.1), so the practical domestic approval and enforcement mechanisms will be those provided by Australian domestic law and ADR administrative arrangements under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018.
Under Appendix A as included, Type Approval Authorities may verify conformity of production and the Authority granting approval may withdraw approval for non‑conformity (Appendix A paras 8.2; 9.1). The ADR’s variation (cl 6.1) means these specific Appendix A administrative enforcement processes are not required for the purposes of the ADR, and domestic enforcement will rely on the broader Road Vehicle Standards Act machinery.

Recordkeeping and reporting duties

If using Appendix A procedures, manufacturers will prepare the Technical Information Document and fill the Annex 1 communication form recording make, type, propulsion principle, test results and other technical data (Appendix A Annex 1 and Addendum). Annex 1 sets out required data points including Lcrs10/Lcrs20/Lreverse and frequency shift figures (Addendum sections 2.1-2.4).
Testing facilities must record background noise samples, ranges, and one-third-octave spectra, and apply the tabulated background correction rules (Annex 3 para 2.3.1-2.3.2 and Table 3).

Limitations on manufacturer rights

Paragraph 6.2.7 prohibits any pause function; manufacturers cannot lawfully give drivers an option to disable the AVAS in normal use. That is an express limitation on product feature design.
If a hybrid or fuel‑cell vehicle’s ICE cannot be kept inactive during the specified tests, Appendix A para 5.1.1 treats the Regulation as not applicable to that vehicle (Appendix A 5.1.1). This both constrains and potentially excludes certain HEV configurations from the AVAS testing path.

The source instrument contains two sets of material relevant to enforcement and penalties: the incorporated UN Regulation No. 138 text (Appendix A), and the ADR’s domestic variations in Section 6 that remove several of Appendix A’s administrative/penalty provisions for the purposes of the Australian standard.

Appendix A (UN Reg 138) enforcement and sanction mechanics

Withdrawal of approval: Appendix A para 9.1 states that a type approval granted pursuant to the Regulation may be withdrawn if the requirements are not met. Para 9.2 requires notification to other Contracting Parties when approval is withdrawn. In the UN text, these are the principal enforcement tools against a type that does not conform.
Conformity verification: Appendix A para 8.2 permits the Type Approval Authority that granted approval to verify, at any time, the conformity control methods applied in each production facility; the "normal frequency" of such verifications is stated as once every two years. That is an ongoing audit power in the UN text to detect non-conformity and trigger corrective measures or withdrawal.
Production discontinuation and communications: Appendix A para 10 requires holders to inform the Type Approval Authority if they cease manufacturing an approved vehicle type, triggering communication to other Parties. Annex 1 and related annexes provide forms and data required for approvals and communications.

Australian ADR variations affecting penalties and enforcement

The Australian standard expressly states in cl 6.1 that compliance with Appendix A Sections 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 is not required "for the purposes of this standard". Those Appendix A sections include Application for approval (3), Approval (5), Modification and extension of approval (7), Conformity of production (8), Penalties for non-conformity of production (9), Production definitively discontinued (10), Transitional provisions (11), and Names and addresses of Technical Services (12).
The practical effect of cl 6.1 is that the specific UN-prescribed administrative approval and penalty apparatus in those identified sections is not imposed by this ADR. The ADR therefore does not import Appendix A’s regime for approval, conformity verification and withdrawal verbatim into Australian law. Enforcement of ADR compliance thus remains governed by the domestic legal and regulatory framework under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 and its compliance mechanisms, rather than by the Appendix A processes that the ADR has declared are not required for its purposes.

Other enforcement-relevant mechanisms in the instrument

Approved Testing Facilities: The instrument replaces references to "Technical Service" in certain Annex 3 paragraphs with "Approved Testing Facility" or omits the Technical Service agreement wording (cl 6.2-6.3). These substitutions allocate responsibility for test execution and verification to facilities approved in the Australian context. The quality, accreditation and oversight of those facilities will be instrumental to enforcement because test reports and certifications from them constitute the technical evidence used to establish compliance.
Test invalidation and exemptions: Annex 3 contains rules that can render test runs invalid (e.g. background noise levels, transient peaks) and prescribes background noise correction criteria that may make measurements non‑reportable (Annex 3 para 2.3.2 and Table 3). Annex 3 also provides that if an ICE remains active or restarts during testing repeatedly (ten consecutive invalid trials), the vehicle is exempted from that particular test (para 6.2.1.3, 6.2.2.2). Those technical measurement rules therefore have enforcement consequences because they determine whether passing/failing test evidence exists.
Alternative compliance paths and limits: The ADR allows a Reversing Alarm per ADR 42/05 cl 23.2 as an alternative to an AVAS that operates in reverse, provided it meets the overall minimum sound limit levels in Appendix A (cl 6.5). Enforcement of reversing requirements may therefore be conducted by checking the Reversing Alarm compliance to ADR 42/05 and the Appendix A overall minima.

Practical enforcement risk and uncertainty (grounded in the instrument)

Because the ADR removes Appendix A administrative sections for domestic purposes (cl 6.1), there is potential for uncertainty about which domestic agency enforces what technical obligations and the administrative route for withdrawal or remedial action. The instrument itself does not specify alternative domestic penalty tables; enforcement will follow the domestic Road Vehicle Standards Act arrangements rather than Appendix A §9. That may create implementation risk unless domestic guidance or administrative practice clarifies enforcement roles and processes.
The instrument gives Type Approval Authorities (in the UN text) powers to verify conformity and withdraw approvals (Appendix A paras 8.2; 9.1). Where manufacturers follow an alternative standard (FMVSS 141), enforcement may depend on how Australian authorities recognise and verify conformity under that U.S. standard; the ADR does not specify the domestic administrative mechanics for equivalence recognition.
The Annex 3 measurement rounding, averaging and correction rules (Annex 3 paras 3.4-3.5; 4.5.1; Table 3) mean that small differences in measurement technique can determine whether a test passes or fails; enforcement disputes are likely to focus on proper application of these detailed technical rules by Approved Testing Facilities.

In sum, Appendix A contains explicit withdrawal and conformity verification mechanisms, but the ADR’s Section 6 removes many of Appendix A’s administrative/penalty sections for the purposes of the Australian standard. Consequently, enforcement will rest on domestic statutory machinery and the role of Approved Testing Facilities and Type Approval Authorities as implemented under Australian law. The instrument itself does not lay out domestic financial penalties or enforcement processes; it defers administrative implementation to the domestic framework while setting technical obligations and permitted exemptions.

Statutory basis and cross-reference

The ADR is made under s 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018, as recorded in the instrument preamble. That statute provides the domestic legislative framework that gives effect to ADRs and determines legal consequence, enforcement and administrative procedure in Australia. The ADR itself does not re‑state the enforcement powers of that Act; the Road Vehicle Standards Act remains the governing enforcement vehicle for ADR compliance in Australia.

Cross‑references within the ADR and other ADRs

The ADR cross-references the Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule - Definitions and Vehicle Categories) 2005 for vehicle categories and other definitions where there is no conflict (cl 4.1.2). Therefore classification issues (e.g., whether a vehicle is MA vs NB) will be resolved by reference to that ADR 2005 standard.
The ADR allows a Reversing Alarm that meets clause 23.2 of Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 42/05 - General Safety Requirements) 2018 to substitute for an AVAS in reverse if it meets the overall minimum sound limits in Appendix A (cl 6.5.1). That creates a direct interaction between ADR 113/00 and ADR 42/05 for reverse-warning compliance.
Appendix A is UN Regulation No. 138 under the 1958 Agreement; it contains its own provisions on approval, communication and marking (Annex 1-2 and paras 5.1-5.8). The ADR incorporates that UN text for technical requirements but modifies administrative parts (cl 6.1). Where manufacturers already hold UN approvals under Reg 138, transitional provisions in Appendix A (para 11) and the ADR’s allowance of the UN text as an alternative standard may simplify mutual recognition , but remember the ADR exempts some Appendix A administrative parts domestically.

International conformity and alternative standards

The ADR recognises two alternative technical routes: the full UN Regulation No. 138 as incorporated (cl 7.1) or the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 141 (49 CFR 571.141) (cl 7.2). This gives manufacturers an explicit choice to meet an international UN‑style type‑approval regime or a U.S. FMVSS technical standard. The ADR does not, however, itself set out the administrative recognition process for an FMVSS‑based certificate; that process will be implemented within Australia’s ADR compliance framework.
Appendix A contains references to the 1958 Agreement and communication among Contracting Parties when approvals are granted, extended or withdrawn (Appendix A paras 5.2-5.3; Annex 1). The ADR’s modification of several Appendix A administrative sections means some of the UN inter‑Party communication mechanics may not be directly triggered for the purposes of the Australian standard.

Standards and testing norms

Annex 3 (incorporated through Appendix A) explicitly references ISO and IEC standards for track surfaces and instrumentation: ISO 10844:2014 for outdoor test track surface (Annex 3 para 2.1.2), ISO 26101:2012 for hemi‑anechoic facilities (Annex 3 para 2.1.3), IEC 61672-1:2013 for Class 1 sound level meters (Annex 3 para 1.1.1), IEC 60942:2003 for sound calibrators (Annex 3 para 1.1.1), and IEC 61260-1:2014 for one‑third octave instrumentation (Annex 3 para 1.1.1). Australian test facilities and Approved Testing Facilities will need to meet these international instrument and facility standards when performing tests.

Potential overlaps and gaps

The ADR’s exclusion of Appendix A administrative sections (cl 6.1) leaves a gap between the UN Reg 138 administrative process and the Australian enforcement pathway. That gap must be filled by Australian administrative practice under the Road Vehicle Standards Act. The ADR does not itself supply domestic rules for type approval numbering, mandatory marks on vehicles, or the procedure for withdrawal of approval that Appendix A provides. Practitioners should expect the Road Vehicle Standards Act and its administrative instruments to supply those mechanisms.
For hybrid vehicles where the ICE cannot be prevented from operating during tests, Appendix A para 5.1.1 treats the Regulation as not applicable. That interaction creates an exclusion where ADR 113/00 will not apply to certain HEV configurations. It therefore intersects with broader automotive regulation on hybrid modes and emission/operation control systems.
The ADR’s allowance for a Reversing Alarm under ADR 42/05 means that ADR 113/00 will sometimes be enforced via ADR 42/05 obligations rather than the AVAS test regime. Compliance assessment for reverse functionality may therefore require cross‑checking ADR 42/05 testing and documentation.

Summary

ADR 113/00 cross‑references international standards and domestic ADRs. It incorporates the technical substance of UN Regulation No. 138 but explicitly varies and omits several administrative UN provisions for domestic purposes (cl 6.1). Practitioners must therefore look to the Road Vehicle Standards Act and the Australian administrative regime to understand approval, marking, notification and enforcement mechanics domestically, while relying on Appendix A and Annex 3 for technical test requirements and instrumentation specifications. The ADR also creates interaction points with ADR 42/05 (reversing alarms) and with the ADR Definitions and Vehicle Categories instrument (2005) for classification questions.

The instrument itself is ADR 113/00 (2024) and records its provenance in two places: the instrument header (Assistant Minister Carol Brown determining the standard under s 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018, dated 17 January 2024) and Appendix A which sets out its textual source as UN Regulation No. 138. The Appendix A header states that its text is based on UN Regulation No. 138 Revision 1, incorporating Amendments 1 to 2, and includes Supplements 1 and 2 to the 01 series of amendments with entry-into-force dates (Supplement 1: 11 January 2020; Supplement 2: 3 January 2021). Appendix A identifies the included series as the 01 series of amendments (Appendix A heading).

Domestic commencement and phase-in

The ADR states it "commences on the day after it is registered" (cl 1.1.2). The operative compliance dates are set within cl 3.1: new model vehicles manufactured on or after 1 November 2025 must comply; all vehicles manufactured on or after 1 November 2026 must comply (cl 3.1.1-3.1.2). The instrument defines "new model" by reference to the vehicle model first produced with a Date of Manufacture on or after the relevant clause date (cl 3.1.2).

Incorporation of UN text and its amendment series

Appendix A specifies the exact incorporated textual basis: UN Regulation No. 138, Revision 1, incorporating Amendments 1 to 2, and supplemented by Supplement 1 and Supplement 2 to the 01 series of amendments. Annex materials and transitional provisions from the UN Reg 138 01 series are therefore part of the incorporated text for technical requirements.

ADR variations and domestic edits

The ADR makes explicit domestic edits to the incorporated text through Section 6: it lists the parts of Appendix A that are not required for Australian purposes (cl 6.1) and instructs the omission of particular phrases and substitutions in Annex 3 (cl 6.2-6.3). It also specifies testing exemptions for certain completed vehicles (cl 6.4) and alternatives for reversing (cl 6.5). Those are domestic amendments to the UN text as imported into the ADR.

Transitional and acceptance provisions in the UN text

Appendix A contains its own transitional provisions at para 11, which govern acceptance of earlier approvals and the 01 series of amendments (Appendix A para 11.2-11.8). Because the ADR incorporates the UN text up to the 01 series, those transitional rules are present in the imported technical text. However, the Australian standard’s Section 6 removes some administrative sections of Appendix A, which may affect the practical operation of the UN transitional mechanics domestically.

Administrative history metadata

The ADR document also records the instrument’s name, citation options and commencement approach (cl 1.1). The instrument’s Appendix A includes historical notes as footnotes and references to documents and standards (e.g., R.E.3 consolidated resolution, dates of supplements), which indicate the UN’s amendment timeline. The ADR itself does not list any prior Australian amendments because it is a new ADR adoption of the UN material with specified domestic variations.

Consequences for practitioners

For legal and technical practitioners, the amendment history indicates the ADR implements UN Regulation No. 138 as of its 01 series of amendments and supplements up to early 2021. Any later UN amendments postdating Supplement 2 (3 January 2021) are not included unless explicitly adopted by a subsequent ADR. Practitioners should therefore verify whether UN Reg 138 later amendments exist and whether Australia has adopted them after ADR 113/00 2024.
The ADR also records the instrument’s domestic modification record within Section 6; those variations are part of the ADR’s amendment history insofar as they depart from the incorporated UN text and define the domestic application.

The provided instrument text does not include any court decisions, tribunal determinations or litigation related to ADR 113/00 or UN Regulation No. 138. The Appendix A UN text likewise does not name any cases. Therefore there is no reported litigation history contained in the source material.

Practical points where litigation or administrative disputes might arise (grounded in the instrument’s content)

Vehicle type classification disputes: Appendix A para 2.3 defines "vehicle type" for purposes of approval with enumerated characteristics (shape/materials affecting sound, principle of drivetrain, number/type/position of AVAS hardware). Where manufacturers or regulators disagree about whether two vehicles "differ essentially", disputes could arise over whether a completed vehicle qualifies for the testing exemptions in cl 6.4. Litigation or administrative review could follow from contested determinations about bodywork materials, drivetrain differences, or AVAS positioning.
Measurement and test methodology disputes: Annex 3 contains detailed measurement procedures, background noise correction tables (Table 3) and rounding/averaging rules (Annex 3 paras 2.3.2; 3.4-3.5; 4.5.1). Disputes are predictable about whether Approved Testing Facilities applied measurement corrections correctly, whether background noise made measurements invalid, and whether averaging and rounding were properly performed. The instrument provides precise mechanical tests and tolerances, and those technical details are likely to form the basis of evidentiary disputes in enforcement or certification challenges.
Exemption and ICE restart issues: Appendix A paras 6.2.1.3 and 6.2.2.2 (in Appendix A Section 6.2.1.3 and 6.2.2.2 respectively) provide that if after ten consecutive trials a vehicle's ICE remains active or restarts and interferes with measurements, the vehicle is exempted from that particular test. Disagreements about whether a vehicle was properly in a mode that should have kept the ICE off, or whether the testing laboratory followed the test procedure for HEV battery SOC and operation, could lead to contestation about the applicability of exemptions.
Scope and applicability disputes for HEVs and other multimode vehicles: Appendix A para 5.1.1 says that if a hybrid vehicle’s ICE will be operational during the specified tests, the Regulation shall be deemed not applicable to that vehicle. This could invite litigation or administrative appeals where regulators assert applicability but manufacturers claim the HEV configuration prevents compliant testing. Determining applicability requires analysis of the specific propulsion control logic; such technical interpretation is often litigated or administratively reviewed.
Administrative enforcement route: Because the ADR removes certain Appendix A administrative provisions (cl 6.1), disputes might occur regarding which domestic administrative process governs withdrawal, notification and other administrative actions. Affected parties could challenge the basis on which an Australian authority imposes sanctions or withdrawal, arguing that the ADR’s omission of Appendix A sections alters the legal basis for particular enforcement actions.

Absence of named cases in the source

The instrument itself does not provide case law, and there are no references to judicial interpretations of the ADR or the incorporated UN Regulation in the text. Any future litigation will be shaped by the domestic Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018, Australian administrative law principles, and technical evidence consistent with Annex 3 testing requirements.

For legal practitioners preparing for potential disputes, the instrument’s technical precision (Annex 3) and the domestic modification of UN procedures (cl 6.1-6.4) indicate the likely loci of contest: measurement technique and validity; application of exemptions (ICE restart; NB/NC/ME completed vehicle identical-AVAS relief); and administrative process for approval and withdrawal under domestic law.

The instrument contains multiple technical and administrative subtleties that can cause compliance surprises if overlooked. The following are specific, source‑grounded pitfalls to watch for.

Two compliance regimes, with domestic carve-outs:
- The ADR offers a choice: comply with Appendix A (UN Reg 138) as varied, or with the alternative standards listed in cl 7. But cl 6.1 removes many Appendix A administrative sections for Australian purposes. If a manufacturer assumes the UN administrative approvals and communications will apply automatically in Australia, they may be surprised to find domestic administrative requirements differ. The ADR says the Appendix A Sections 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 are "not required for the purposes of this standard" (cl 6.1). Practically, that means do not assume the UN approval/withdrawal notifications and timelines operate in Australian ADR form unless Australian administrative rules adopt them.
"New model" vs "all vehicles" deadlines:
- Compliance dates are not uniform. New models have an earlier date (1 November 2025) than all vehicles (1 November 2026) (cl 3.1.1-3.1.2). Manufacturers must track "Date of Manufacture" definitions to determine whether a model is a new model. Misreading the date of manufacture threshold can mean non-compliant vehicles enter the market.
HEV operational-exemption trap:
- Appendix A para 5.1.1 provides that if a hybrid’s ICE will be operational during the Regulation’s specified tests because it cannot be held inactive, the Regulation is deemed not applicable to that vehicle. That is both an exclusion and a pitfall: a manufacturer may find their HEV cannot be tested because the ICE restarts and therefore the vehicle falls outside the standard, but that does not automatically produce an alternative compliance route. The manufacturer should verify whether the vehicle can be modified or tested in a simulated standstill mode, or whether alternative standards apply.
ICE restart during tests can trigger automatic exemption from particular tests:
- Appendix A para 6.2.1.3 and para 6.2.2.2 say that if after ten consecutive test attempts the ICE remains active and interferes with measurements, the vehicle is exempted from that particular test. While this sounds protective for the manufacturer, it also means that a vehicle may escape measurement for certain regimes, complicating compliance evidence and potentially creating regulatory ambiguity.
No pause function allowed:
- The ADR expressly prohibits any pause function for AVAS (para 6.2.7). Manufacturers and fleet managers cannot provide drivers with a legal means to switch off the AVAS temporarily. Devices or aftermarket modifications that add a mute/pause feature will be non‑compliant.
Frequency shift measurement complexity:
- The frequency‑shift requirement is precise: at least 0.8% change per 1 km/h in the 5-20 km/h range for at least one tone (para 6.2.3.2). Annex 3 para 4 provides multiple test methods (A-E) with specific sample segmentation, Hanning windows, overlap percentages and rounding/averaging rules (Annex 3 paras 4.3-4.5). Small differences in analyser settings, choice of frequency component, rounding to integer hertz, or whether the manufacturer uses Method E (AVAS only) versus full vehicle tests can materially affect compliance results. The instrument’s detailed signal‑processing steps (Annex 3 para 4.5) mean that test set‑up disagreements are likely.
Background noise correction and one‑third‑octave bands:
- Annex 3 para 2.3.2 and Table 3 supply a graded correction scheme for background correction, and para 2.3.3 prohibits background compensation for one‑third‑octave band measurements (i.e., those band measurements must each be 6 dB(A) below the measured vehicle band). Testing in urban or noisy environments may lead to invalid one‑third‑octave band results. Approved Testing Facilities must ensure test sites and timing meet the background noise criteria.
Test instrumentation and calibration obligations:
- Annex 3 requires Class 1 instruments to IEC standards and calibration checks at beginning and end of each session, with stricter compliance verification intervals (annual and biennial) (Annex 3 paras 1.1.1-1.1.3). Failing to maintain calibration records or using sub‑standard instrumentation can invalidate test evidence.
Tyre and mass choices affect result:
- The vehicle’s tyres for testing must be those designated by the manufacturer for the vehicle and inflated to manufacturer-specified pressures (Annex 3 para 3.2.5). Mass in running order is allowed ±15% (Annex 3 para 3.2.4). Manufacturers who use different tyre sizes or incorrect tyre pressure during tests risk non‑representative results that may not be accepted.
Driver selectable sounds must all comply:
- The Regulation permits driver selectable sounds (para 6.2.5) and multiple sound levels (para 6.2.6), but specifies each selection must meet the Regulation’s requirements. If a vehicle offers several sounds of which some do not meet minima or other criteria, the presence of non‑compliant options can render the vehicle non‑compliant. Manufacturers must ensure every selectable sound is certified.
Reversing alarm alternative has its own requirements:
- If relying on a Reversing Alarm in lieu of an AVAS operating in reverse, the alarm must meet ADR 42/05 clause 23.2 and meet overall minimum sound levels per Appendix A (cl 6.5.1). A misunderstanding about whether ADR 42/05 alone suffices can lead to non-compliance.
Rounding and reporting rules are specific:
- Appendix 3 sets rounding to the nearest integer for final reported sound values and rounding of frequency reports to the nearest integer hertz. These arithmetic rules can push marginal results over or under the limits depending on rounding direction; practitioners should not assume smoothing or different rounding.
Approved Testing Facility vs Technical Service:
- The ADR deliberately substitutes "Approved Testing Facility" in certain Annex 3 contexts (cl 6.3) and omits the “in agreement with the Technical Service” phrase (cl 6.2). Ensure that Australian Approved Testing Facilities are accredited and that reporting relationships with Type Approval Authorities or other domestic bodies are clear.
Register of Approved Vehicles reference:
- The exemption in cl 6.4(a) relies on an AVAS being "fitted to another vehicle of the same category that has been entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles". Manufacturers must verify whether an AVAS is indeed on that Register and document the equivalence; absence of proper registry evidence may negate the exemption.

Practical mitigation steps are in the compliance section below, but the recurring theme is that measurement detail, administrative routing, and small technical choices (tyres, mass, analyser settings, rounding) materially affect whether a vehicle complies.

Compliance can be achieved by following one of the two legal routes the ADR expressly permits: meet Appendix A (UN Regulation No. 138) as varied by Section 6 of the ADR, or meet one of the alternative standards listed in Section 7 (UN Reg 138 01 series or U.S. FMVSS 141). The remainder of this section provides a step‑by‑step checklist and practical implementation guidance, grounded in the instrument’s text.

Step 1 , Choose compliance pathway (legal decision)

Option A: Follow Appendix A text (UN Reg 138) including Annex 3 testing procedures, but apply the ADR’s Section 6 variations (cl 5.1; cl 6.1-6.5).
Option B: Follow the alternative standard U.S. FMVSS 141 (49 CFR 571.141) or the UN Regulation No. 138 01 series (cl 7.1-7.2). Action: Document the chosen pathway in the vehicle’s compliance file and ensure the team knows which measurement protocols and administrative steps apply. The selection affects test methods, reporting formats, and engagement with Approved Testing Facilities.

Step 2 , Confirm applicability and timing

Verify vehicle category (use ADR Definitions and Vehicle Categories 2005 where no conflict, cl 4.1.2) and whether the vehicle can be propelled without the ICE (cl 3.1). Confirm the vehicle’s Date of Manufacture to determine whether it is a new model (cl 3.1.2) and the applicable compliance date (1 Nov 2025 for new models; 1 Nov 2026 for all vehicles, cl 3.1.1-3.1.2).

Step 3 , Design and hardware decisions

Ensure AVAS hardware and placement allow the vehicle to meet minimum overall levels and the specified one‑third‑octave band minima at the required test speeds (Appendix A para 6.2.1-6.2.9 and Table 2). If the vehicle will offer driver selectable sounds or multiple sound levels, certify each variant (para 6.2.5-6.2.6). Avoid implementing any pause function (para 6.2.7).
Decide whether to rely on a Reversing Alarm per ADR 42/05 cl 23.2 as the reverse-sound solution (cl 6.5). If so, ensure the alarm meets ADR 42/05 technical requirements and the Appendix A overall minima.

Step 4 , Prepare test plan aligned to Annex 3

If following Appendix A, test per Annex 3. Key items:
- Instrumentation: use Class 1 sound meters per IEC 61672-1:2013, one‑third‑octave analyser compliance per IEC 61260-1:2014, sound calibrator per IEC 60942:2003. Maintain calibration records and perform session start/end calibration checks (Annex 3 paras 1.1.1-1.1.3).
- Test site: outdoor test track meeting ISO 10844:2014 or suitably dense asphalt/concrete for stationary tests; indoor hemi-anechoic chamber per ISO 26101:2012 where used (Annex 3 para 2.1.2-2.1.3).
- Microphone positions: 2.0 m ±0.05 m lateral offset (PP' to CC') and 1.2 m ±0.02 m height (Annex 3 para 3.1), follow Figures 1-2.
- Mass and tyres: test at mass in running order ±15% tolerance (Annex 3 para 3.2.4), tyres selected from manufacturer-designated sizes and pressures (Annex 3 para 3.2.5).
- Modes and battery SOC: test in the vehicle mode that produces lowest sound emission or, if automatic, determine correct mode per manufacturer (Annex 3 para 3.2.3). Ensure battery SOC/temperature allow key functionalities (Annex 3 para 3.2.2).

Step 5 , Engage Approved Testing Facility and document agreed test setup

Because the ADR substitutes "Approved Testing Facility" for "Technical Service" in certain contexts (cl 6.3), engage an Australian‑approved facility with capability for vehicle or AVAS testing and familiarity with Annex 3 procedures. Agree on analyser settings, sampling rates, signal processing settings (Hanning window, overlap, frequency resolution) because Annex 3 para 4.2 requires analyser settings to be agreed between manufacturer and the Technical Service/Approved Testing Facility for frequency-shift tests.

Step 6 , Run tests and follow Annex 3 measurement reporting

Conduct constant speed tests at 10 km/h and 20 km/h (Annex 3 para 3.3.2). For each condition, obtain at least four valid consecutive measurements per side within 2.0 dB(A) tolerance and apply background corrections per Table 3 if required (Annex 3 paras 3.4-3.5; 2.3.2).
For reversing, test at 6 km/h (Annex 3 para 3.3.3). If ICE restarts prevent valid measurement for ten consecutive runs, Annex 3 and the main text indicate exemption from that particular test (Appendix A paras 6.2.1.3; 6.2.2.2).
For frequency shift, apply one of Methods A-E (Annex 3 para 4.3). Follow spectral analysis and calculate frequency shift per Annex 3 para 4.5.1 equation (del f) and report frequencies rounded to the nearest integer.

Step 7 , Verify compliance against Table 2 and other technical thresholds

Confirm overall and one‑third‑octave band minima at required speeds match Table 2 (Appendix A para 6.2.9 and Table 2). Confirm maximum overall forward ≤ 75 dB(A) (para 6.2.8). Confirm frequency shift ≥ 0.8% per 1 km/h between 5-20 km/h for some tone (para 6.2.3.2). Verify no pause function exists and any driver selectable sounds comply individually (para 6.2.5-6.2.7).

Step 8 , Documentation and record retention

Assemble test reports, calibration certificates, Technical Information Document (Annex 1 addendum format) with Lcrs10, Lcrs20, Lreverse, frequency shift results and other required data (Annex 1 Addendum sections 2.1-2.4). Maintain instrument calibration logs and site qualification evidence (Annex 3 paras 1.1.2-1.1.3; 2.1.2-2.1.3).

Step 9 , If relying on the NB/NC/ME completed vehicle exemption (cl 6.4)

Ensure the AVAS is genuinely identical in specification to that fitted to a vehicle of the same category entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles. Verify that the completed vehicle does not differ essentially in the five enumerated respects (bodywork shape/materials affecting sound; drivetrain/source of propulsion; number of axles; number/type(s) of AVAS hardware; position of AVAS) (cl 6.4). Maintain documentary evidence establishing identity and that the referenced vehicle is on the Register.

Step 10 , Maintain post‑market conformity arrangements

Even though the ADR declares certain Appendix A conformity/penalty sections not required domestically (cl 6.1), maintain internal quality and production conformity procedures so that production vehicles remain consistent with the tested type. If choosing the Appendix A path, note that Appendix A para 8.2 contemplates verification of conformity by the Type Approval Authority at normally once every two years , adopt internal checks at least as rigorous to avoid remedial actions.

Step 11 , Prepare for import or market placement interactions

For imports and registration checks, provide the vehicle’s compliance evidence to the relevant Australian authority under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018. If the manufacturer used the alternative FMVSS 141 path, be prepared to show equivalence documentation and the chosen rationale for that path under Australian administrative rules.

Step 12 , Monitor for updates and implement change management

The ADR incorporates UN Reg 138 up to the 01 series and supplements up to early 2021. Monitor for any post‑2021 UN amendments or domestic ADR updates. Because the ADR sets explicit compliance dates, maintain a timeline for new models and fleet fitment to ensure production schedules match regulatory milestones.

Checklist (quick)

Decide compliance standard (Appendix A with ADR variations or FMVSS 141).
Engage an Approved Testing Facility familiar with Annex 3.
Prepare vehicle test configuration notes (tyres, mass, battery SOC, mode selection).
Run constant speed (10, 20 km/h), reversing (6 km/h) and frequency shift tests per Annex 3.
Ensure AVAS lacks pause function and that all selectable sounds comply.
Document all test data, calibration certificates, and complete the Technical Information Document if following Appendix A.
If relying on NB/NC/ME completed vehicle exemption, document identity to a Register entry and non-essential differences.
Retain records and implement production conformity systems.

Following these steps will align a manufacturer’s technical, administrative and recordkeeping processes with the mechanical obligations and test regimes established by ADR 113/00 2024.

Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 113/00 – Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles) 2024

Plain English Summary

Deep Dive

What it does

Current sections

Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 113/00 – Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for Quiet Road Transport Vehicles) 2024

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Table 1

Table 2

Table 5

Figures 1a and 1b

Figures 2a and 2b

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7a

Figure 7b

Figure 7c

Source text: opening excerpt

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Main concepts

Who it affects

Key duties and rights

Penalties and enforcement

How it interacts with other laws

Amendment history

Litigation history

Gotchas

How to comply

Table 1