Government Proposes Real-World Mileage Testing For All Cars
In a significant move to provide more accurate fuel efficiency data, the road transport ministry has proposed mandatory testing of cars with their air-conditioning systems both switched on and off. This new regulation aims to reflect actual driving conditions more realistically.
New Testing Requirements From 2026
The draft notification issued on Thursday states that from October 1, 2026, all category M1 vehicles manufactured or imported in India must undergo fuel consumption testing with the AC system operational. This testing will follow the AIS-213 standard, which details procedures for measuring emissions and fuel use while the AC is running.
Officials explained that the current practice of declaring mileage figures based on tests conducted without AC running often fails to match real-world performance. They emphasized that AC usage significantly impacts both fuel consumption and energy use in electric vehicles.
Transparency For Consumers
Under the proposed rules, car manufacturers and importers will need to display both AC-on and AC-off mileage figures in vehicle user manuals and on their official websites. This requirement applies to all Internal Combustion Engine vehicles and electric vehicles sold in India.
The ministry believes this move will bridge the gap between claimed mileage and actual on-road performance, giving consumers more reliable information for making purchasing decisions. Many car buyers currently experience lower fuel efficiency than advertised figures suggest.
Aligning With Indian Conditions
While automakers have traditionally followed European norms that consider only AC-off mileage, officials argue that India's climate demands different standards. With high temperatures across much of the country for extended periods, AC usage is more frequent and intensive than in many European markets.
The AIS-213 standard specifically captures the additional fuel consumption and emissions generated by AC systems. This load can substantially affect both efficiency and pollution levels during regular vehicle operation.
Broader Framework For Consumer Awareness
The ministry is reportedly developing a comprehensive framework to increase consumer awareness about vehicle emissions. In the future, car owners might receive precise information about their vehicles' environmental impact.
This initiative represents part of a larger effort to improve transparency in the automotive sector. By providing more accurate mileage data, the government hopes to empower consumers and encourage manufacturers to develop more efficient vehicles suited to Indian driving conditions.
