BS6 emission testing standards to be changed: What it means for you

India’s vehicle emissions testing system is set for a significant update, with the government confirming the shift to a new testing cycle from April 1, 2027. The change will apply to all BS6-compliant vehicles in the M1 and M2 categories, with the move aimed at making emissions and fuel efficiency figures more realistic for everyday driving conditions.The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a notification amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, under which vehicle emissions will be tested using the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure or WLTP. It will replace the Modified Indian Driving Cycle, which is currently used to certify fuel efficiency and emission levels in India.The new testing methodology will include M1 and M2 class vehicles. M1 vehicles include passenger cars, hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs and MPVs with eight seats in addition to the driver’s seat. M2 vehicles are vans and minibus-like passenger carriers with more than eight passenger seats and a gross vehicle weight of up to five tonnes.

What does this mean for car owners?

Currently, MIDC-based testing has often been criticized for not reflecting real-world driving conditions. WLTP, on the other hand, is designed to better match the way vehicles actually drive on the road. As a result, the emissions of pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter recorded during testing are close to those produced by vehicles in daily use.This change is expected to bring more transparency for car buyers. Fuel efficiency figures displayed by manufacturers are likely to be more realistic, helping consumers make better comparisons between models. While some of the official mileage figures may appear low on paper, expect them to be close to real-world performance.