As many as 17 passenger cars in the Indian market are set to be discontinued by April 2023 as the new Real Driving Emission (RDE) norms come into effect in India. The new set of emission regulations will reportedly measure pollutants such as nitrogen oxide emitted from a car in real-world driving scenarios, taking into account the frequent changes in speed.
When the new norms come into effect, automakers will have to upgrade their engines to reduce emissions. The engine updation process is likely to be expensive, especially for diesel vehicles and hence several passenger cars are likely to be phased out in India.
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RDE can be considered phase-2 of BS6 emission standards which were implemented in India back in 2020. Now under the new specifications, a vehicle needs to have an on-board self-diagnostic device that will monitor real-time driving emission levels. The device will constantly monitor parts like catalytic converter and oxygen sensors to ensure that they are meeting the emission standards.
Instead of a laboratory, the RDE test measures the pollutants such as Nitrogen Oxide emitted by a vehicle in real-time. Furthermore, automakers in India will also have to upgrade the semiconductors of the vehicles to scan crankshaft positions, throttle, and engine temperature among others. The cars will also have to be fitted with programmed fuel injectors to control the level of fuel burnt.
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Cars that will be discontinued in India by April 2023 include five models of Honda including Jazz, WR-V, Amaze Diesel, 6th gen City, and 7th gen City diesel. Three models of Mahindra will also be phased out including Alturas G4, Marazzo, and KUV100.
Two models of Skoda including Superb and Octavia, and two models of Hyundai — i20 diesel and Verna diesel, will also go off the roads. Other models that will be discontinued include the Tata Altroz diesel, Maruti Suzuki Alto 800, Renault Kwid 800, Nissan Kicks, and the Toyota Innova Crystal.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com