Mandatory ABS for Two-Wheelers: A Crucial Step towards Safer Roads

 

The Indian government’s decision to mandate Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) for all two-wheelers from January 1, 2026, is a bold and necessary step toward reducing road fatalities. As a Road Safety Ambassador and advocate for smart mobility solutions, I firmly believe this policy will save thousands of lives. However, it also brings economic challenges for manufacturers and consumers, particularly in the price-sensitive sub-125cc segment, which dominates 85% of India’s two-wheeler market.

                                                                 Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava

The Power of ABS: Revolutionizing Road Safety

ABS technology prevents wheel lock-up during emergency braking, allowing riders to maintain control and avoid skidding—a critical feature on India’s congested and often unpredictable roads. Government data reveals that two-wheelers account for 44% of road fatalities (nearly 75,000 deaths in 2022). The expansion of ABS to sub-125cc vehicles (previously exempt) addresses this grim statistic head-on. My experience working with NHAI, World Bank, and UN initiatives has shown that technology-driven safety measures, when implemented effectively, can reduce accidents by 30-50%.

Economic Impact: Challenges for OEMs and Consumers

While safety must be prioritized, the transition comes with hurdles:

1. Affordability Concerns: The sub-125cc segment—76% of ICE motorcycles and nearly all scooters—is highly price-sensitive. Nomura estimates a 3–5% price hike (₹3,000–₹10,000 per unit), which could reduce demand by 2–4%.

·        Hero MotoCorp (99% exposure), Honda (89%), TVS (86%), and Bajaj (72%) will face the biggest impact.

·        Rural buyers, who rely on affordability, may delay purchases, affecting industry recovery.

2.  EV Sector Strain: Electric two-wheelers (except premium models like Ola S1 Pro) will also face cost pressures, adding to existing supply-chain challenges.

The Way Forward: Balancing Safety & Affordability

To ensure a smooth transition, I recommend:
✔ Phased Implementation – A staggered rollout for entry-level models to ease financial burdens.
✔ Government Subsidies – Tax breaks or incentives to offset ABS costs for manufacturers.
✔ Consumer Awareness – Campaigns educating riders on ABS benefits, reinforcing that safety is non-negotiable.
✔ Localized Production – Encouraging domestic ABS manufacturing to reduce dependency on global suppliers like Bosch and Continental.

Conclusion: Safety Cannot Be Compromised

History shows that safety mandates (like BS-VI norms) initially disrupt markets but eventually become industry standards. While OEMs adapt, the long-term benefits—fewer accidents, lower medical costs, and safer roads—far outweigh short-term challenges.

As India moves toward its Vision Zero Accident goal, policies like ABS mandates must be supported by smart financing, public awareness, and industry collaboration. Let’s make Indian roads safer—one responsible decision at a time.

About Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava

A renowned Road Safety Ambassador, Smart Mobility Expert, and former Chief General Manager of NHAI, Mr. Srivastava has spearheaded multiple global road safety initiatives with the World Bank, UN, and IRF. He is a strong advocate for technology-driven traffic management and sustainable transport solutions.

Source link: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/mandatory-abs-for-two-wheelers-a-crucial-step-towards-safer-roads-c31eaee90493

Washington’s BEAM Act: How Speed Limiters Will Curb Reckless Driving and Save Lives

In a groundbreaking move to address rising traffic fatalities, Washington State has enacted the BEAM Act (House Bill 1596), a law mandating intelligent speed assistance (ISA) devices for high-risk drivers. Signed by Governor Bob Ferguson on May 12, 2025, the law targets reckless drivers with suspended licenses, using technology to enforce speed limits and prevent tragedies like the 2024 Renton crash that killed four people, including three children.

                                                                   Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava

Key Provisions of the BEAM Act

1.     Targeted Enforcement:

•  Drivers with licenses suspended for reckless speeding (defined as 20+ mph over limits ≥40 mph, or 10+ mph under 40 mph) must install ISA devices to regain limited driving privileges.

•   Judges can also require ISA devices as part of probation or pre-trial release.

2.     How the Technology Works:

•   GPS-linked devices prevent vehicles from exceeding posted speed limits, overriding accelerator input. Drivers get three monthly overrides for emergencies.

•   Similar to ignition interlocks for DUI offenders, tampering with the device is a gross misdemeanor.

3.     Implementation Timeline:

•   The law takes effect January 1, 2029, giving agencies time to establish protocols and affordability programs for low-income drivers.

Why the BEAM Act Matters

• Rising Traffic Deaths: Washington saw 809 traffic fatalities in 2023, a 33-year high, with speeding contributing to a third of deaths. The Renton crash, caused by a driver with prior speeding violations, became a rallying point for the law.
• National Trend: Washington joins Virginia, Georgia, and D.C. in adopting speed-limiting tech, while Europe mandates ISA in new cars.

Expert Insight: Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava’s Perspective

Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava, a globally recognized expert in intelligent traffic management and road safety technology, lauded Washington's bold step. “The BEAM Act represents a much-needed evolution in traffic law enforcement, leveraging technology to make our roads safer,” he said. “ISA devices act as digital guardians, preventing drivers from making fatal errors in judgment. With lives at stake, it's imperative that governments integrate such smart solutions into mainstream policy.”

He further emphasized the global relevance of this approach, stating, “Countries worldwide are grappling with road fatalities caused by over-speeding. Washington’s initiative will not only save lives but also set a precedent for intelligent traffic enforcement. India, too, is exploring similar measures, and this move offers valuable insights into scalable implementation models.”

Controversies and Challenges

• Critics highlight potential GPS inaccuracies in urban areas or tunnels, which could frustrate drivers 
• Costs: Drivers pay $21/month for the device, with subsidies for low-income users.

A Legacy of Safety

Named after the Renton crash victims—Buster Brown, Eloise Wilcoxson, Andrea Smith Hudson, and Matilda Wilcoxson—the BEAM Act reflects families’ advocacy. As Rep. Mari Leavitt stated, “Safety on our roads matters, and we will do everything to protect our communities”

Source link: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/washingtons-beam-act-how-speed-limiters-will-curb-reckless-driving-and-save-lives-c2f4ff5c88f0