Implications of the Implementation of BS6 Emission Standards for Non-Compliant Vehicles

Absent a stringent emission regulatory framework, vehicular pollutants contribute significantly to air pollution, with diesel vehicles being particularly problematic, especially in urban areas. In India, the Bharat Stage (BS) emission norms, based on European standards, were introduced to curb these issues. This article discusses the implications on non-compliant vehicles post the implementation of the stricter BS6 norms as mandated in April 2020.

Introduction of BS6 Emission Norms

The Bharat Stage BS norms were rolled out in 2000 as a response to the increasing vehicular emissions. The government skipped over the BS5 standard to adopt a more stringent network that could control the rising pollution from vehicular exhausts. After many deliberations and extensions, the final deadline for the implementation of the BS6 norms was set for April 2020.

Timeline and Compliance Requirements

Apart from requiring automobile manufacturers and oil marketing companies to align their products with the new standards, the shift to BS6 mandates a significant change in fuel composition. BS6-compliant engines are designed to emit fewer pollutants, and they require BS6 fuel for optimal performance. Conversely, running them on lower-quality BS4 fuel results in comparable emissions to BS4-compliant engines, presenting a significant environmental risk.

Petrol and Diesel Vehicles

The transition to BS6 poses minimal challenges for petrol vehicles, as BS4 and BS6 fuel differ little in composition. However, diesel vehicles face significant hurdles due to the dramatic reduction in sulphur content from 50ppm (BS4) to 10ppm (BS6). Diesel engines use injectors to ionize fuel for combustion, and the lower sulphur content in BS6 fuel can prematurely wear out these injectors, leading to potential engine failure.

Legal Status of Non-Compliant Vehicles

It is important to note that existing vehicles with BS3 and BS4 engines will not face legal repercussions after April 2020. These vehicles are legally allowed to continue operating on the roads, provided they comply with relevant traffic regulations. Manufacturers, however, are no longer permitted to sell BS4 vehicles post the transition date. Instead, they aim to clear existing stocks by offering older models at a reduced price, a common practice observed during previous compliance transitions.

Impact on the Market

The market response to stricter emission norms has been reduced pricing for older engines. Manufacturers often clear existing inventories by selling them at a discount, deploying a strategy that occurred at the time of the introduction of BS4 norms. This move not only supports market clearance but also provides consumers with more affordable options albeit within the legal framework that continues to permit the operation of these vehicles.

Conclusion

The shift to the stringent BS6 emission standards is a significant step towards curbing vehicular pollution. While non-compliant diesel vehicles may encounter challenges in remaining compliant without modifications, the legal framework ensures their continued operation on Indian roads. As the auto industry adjusts to new norms, the focus remains on ensuring a balance between environmental compliance and maintaining grid parity on the consumer side.