Real World Emission Tests Coming To India

The emission crackdown in India is being made loud and clear, but while some moves didn’t quite make sense, here’s one that could offer great value. Currently, new vehicles undergo laboratory tests to analyse their emissions, but real driving emission (RDE) tests may soon be introduced to get more accurate readings.

Studies have shown that cars that comply with existing standards have higher emissions during on-road tests than they do during a laboratory analysis. This is particularly reflected in the case of diesel vehicles. Lab tests involve a fixed set of parameters which hold all vehicles to the same yardstick. While this standardized method does give you a reference point, the results are often a far cry from the car’s performance in the real world.

Let’s not forget, carmakers are well aware of what these testing parameters are, which is why Volkswagen was able to develop the ‘defeat device’ that led to the brand’s multi-billion dollar ‘Dieselgate’ controversy.

This move, if executed, could see India’s emission tests become one of the most stringent in the world. As per the report by ET Auto, the procedure for off-cycle emissions is being worked out by the ministry of road transport & highways and the ministry of heavy industries.

It is also believed that the road ministry is establishing a framework to analyse in-use vehicles, and in-service compliance tests may be introduced from 2020 onwards. Currently, the Bharat Stage emission norms are applicable to new cars, but not vehicles that are already in use.