India’s annual car sales are expected to increase three-fold from the current 3.5 million to about 10.5 million by 2030. This surge is likely to escalate exposure to vehicular emissions, posing environmental and public health challenges. As the fifth-largest global car manufacturer, India has seen a 10% compound annual growth rate in vehicle registration as of 2019.
The Impact of Vehicular Emissions in India
Vehicular emission is a significant source of air pollution in metropolitan areas, contributing 20-30% of Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5. PM2.5 refers to minute particles, less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter that remain suspended in the atmosphere for prolonged periods. Vehicles annually contribute approximately 290 gigagrams of PM2.5. Additionally, about 8% of total Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions in India stem from the transport sector, rising to over 30% in the capital city of Delhi.
Vehicular Emissions on a Global Scale
The road transport sector accounts for a quarter of total emissions worldwide. Of these, passenger vehicles account for about 45% of CO2 emissions. If current conditions persist, global GHG emissions in 2050 may be a staggering 90% higher than those of 2020.
Challenges in Reducing Emissions in India
While vehicle technology in India is rapidly evolving with changes in fuel quality, exhaust treatment systems, and moves towards electrification and hydrogen-powered vehicles, there is pressing need for tighter emissions standards. Adjustments to technical parameters for vehicle testing is necessary to decrease real-world emissions.
Vehicular Emission Testing Methods
Most countries, including India, have regulations for vehicle testing at the manufacturing stage and during use. The vehicle certification procedures involve testing engine performance and emission compliance in the laboratory. A drive cycle—representing a pattern of acceleration, deceleration and idling—is followed to achieve acceptable test results.
Indian Drive Cycle (IDC) and Modified Indian Drive Cycle (MIDC)
The IDC was the first vehicular testing and certification method based on extensive road tests in India. It involved six driving cycle modes spanning 108 seconds, reflecting different driving conditions. Recognizing that the IDC did not account for all driving conditions typically observed on Indian roads, the Modified Indian Drive Cycle (MIDC) was subsequently adopted.
Real Driving Emissions (RDE) Testing Method
The RDE testing method is an independent test developed to overcome the limitations of lab-based tests. This method involves testing a car on public roads under a wide range of conditions. The International Centre for Automotive Technology in India is currently developing RDE procedures expected to be implemented in 2023.
Efforts to Reduce Emissions in India
India has taken several measures to manage vehicular emissions. These include the shift from Bharat Stage-IV (BS-IV) to Bharat Stage-VI (BS-VI) emission standards starting from April 2020. Furthermore, a roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India by 2025 has been proposed to gradually rollout ethanol-blended fuel across the nation.
Additionally, the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric vehicle (FAME) Scheme aims to incentivise all vehicle segments with a focus on hybrid and electric vehicles. The National Hydrogen Energy Mission seeks to reduce carbon emissions and increase the use of renewable energy sources.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024