With oil companies fully equipped with the latest in technology to supply fuel of such quality as is stipulated in BS VI norms, the Indian Government could directly introduce BS VI emission standard. BS V was to be introduced in 2020 while BS VI was to come into effect in 2024. However, with technical advancements in the automotive field, skipping of BS V will allow the country to be on par with international standards of emission.
Fuel quality specs applicable for BS V and BS VI do not see much difference where sulphur content is concerned and hence the upgrade is being contemplated which would greatly reduce overall pollution levels.
Bharat Stage emission standard is instituted by the government so as to keep a check on air pollutants from internal combustion engines. India has been following European emission standards but lags by five years and is at present following BS IV norms in 33 cities in the country. With most companies operating on a global level, meeting international standards is mandatory, thus making the Indian Government mull the possibility of skipping one level of emission and upgrading directly to BS VI standards.
While this direct shift form Stage IV to VI emission standard will bring down pollution levels to a great extent, the proposal which already has the backing of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is expected to be opposed by OEMs due to huge investments that will be necessary for these technical upgrades. As per industrial estimates, the upgrade from BS IV to BS V levels would have entailed an investment of around INR 50,000 crores with this figure moving up substantially for a direct shift to BS VI.
via ET Auto
