MoRTH Introduces WLTP Emission Standards for M1, M2 Vehicles from April 2027

The WLTP standards will enhance the accuracy of fuel consumption figures by providing a more realistic testing environment. This includes factors like air conditioning operation, which can significantly affect mileage. By aligning fuel consumption testing with real-world conditions, consumers will have better insights into vehicle efficiency, helping them make informed decisions when purchasing vehicles. This change aims to standardize testing across all vehicle types, including electric vehicles.

Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS) are designed to increase the safety of electric vehicles (EVs) by providing audible alerts to pedestrians and other road users. Since EVs are quieter than conventional vehicles, these systems help mitigate the risk of accidents, especially in urban environments where pedestrian traffic is high. The AVAS must comply with specific audibility standards to ensure effectiveness, contributing to overall road safety.

The new CAFE 3 draft introduces relaxed norms for small petrol vehicles, acknowledging their limited potential for fuel efficiency improvements. It allows a reduction in declared carbon emissions for specific models, encouraging manufacturers to meet stricter fleet-wide targets. This approach aims to support the market for compact and entry-level vehicles while promoting advanced powertrains like hybrids and electric vehicles.

The BS-VI norms, implemented in 2020, represent a significant leap in emission control, aligning closely with Euro 6 standards. They require substantial reductions in particulate matter and nitrogen oxides from diesel vehicles. The introduction of technologies like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) has also been mandated. Additionally, onboard diagnostics systems have become more advanced, monitoring emissions and alerting users to failures in real-time.

The WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) offers a more comprehensive and realistic assessment of vehicle emissions and fuel consumption compared to previous testing methods. It incorporates real-world driving conditions, which include variable speeds, acceleration patterns, and the use of air conditioning. This contrasts with earlier standards that primarily relied on controlled laboratory tests, often leading to discrepancies between reported and actual performance.