If you’ve ever bought a car expecting the advertised mileage only to be disappointed on Indian roads, you’re not alone. The fuel efficiency figures in brochures rarely reflect real-world results, mainly because testing standards don’t mimic Indian driving conditions.
Government Steps In: A Major Policy Shift
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is set to address this issue with a landmark proposal. Starting October 1, 2026, carmakers must test and publish fuel efficiency figures with both the air conditioning (AC) turned on and off—making mileage claims more transparent and trustworthy.
Understanding the Proposed Rule
What’s Being Suggested?
A draft notification from MoRTH requires that every vehicle sold in India, whether domestically manufactured or imported, must undergo fuel efficiency testing under two scenarios:
- With the air conditioning off
- With the air conditioning on
Manufacturers will then be required to publicly share both sets of figures.
Which Vehicles Will This Affect?
This rule applies to all powertrain types, including:
- Petrol cars
- Diesel cars
- CNG vehicles
- Hybrids
- Electric vehicles (EVs)
It represents one of the biggest changes in India’s approach to fuel efficiency.
Timeline for Implementation
- Draft Notification: 2025
- Final Implementation: October 1, 2026
All new cars sold from this date must comply with the dual-test regime.
Why AC Usage Matters in India
The Reality of Indian Driving
In India, driving without AC is rare due to the hot, humid, and congested conditions. AC is a necessity, not a luxury.
How AC Impacts Efficiency
- Petrol/Diesel Cars: The AC compressor draws power from the engine, increasing fuel consumption.
- Electric Vehicles: AC usage drains the battery, reducing range—especially critical in hot weather.
The Current Shortfall
Currently, official mileage figures are based on global (mostly European) test cycles, conducted with the AC off. These tests don’t account for India’s hotter climate, heavier traffic, or typical driving styles, causing real-world mileage to be 15–30% lower than advertised.
What This Means for Car Buyers
Key Benefits for Consumers
From 2026, buyers will see:
- Mileage figures with AC off
- Mileage figures with AC on
Why This Matters
- More realistic expectations
- Easier car comparisons
- Accurate fuel cost calculations
- Greater transparency
This is especially valuable for budget-conscious buyers of entry-level and mass-market vehicles.
Manufacturer Responsibilities Under AIS-213
Standardized Testing and Reporting
Manufacturers must follow the AIS-213 standard, which prescribes:
- Specific test methods for AC-on scenarios
- Consistent test conditions
- Uniform reporting formats
Where Will These Figures Appear?
Both mileage numbers must be published in:
- Owner’s manuals
- Official websites
- Sales brochures
- Promotional materials
This ensures consumers have access to transparent information before making a purchase.
A Major Shift in Indian Regulations
Moving Beyond European Standards
India has relied on European testing cycles that don’t consider:
- Hot weather
- Frequent idling
- City traffic
- Constant AC usage
The new rule marks a move towards India-specific regulations, reflecting local climate, traffic, and real-world usage.
Impact on Claimed Mileage and EV Ranges
What to Expect Post-2026
- Claimed mileage figures may appear lower
- EV range claims will become more realistic
- Brochure numbers will better reflect everyday experiences
Important Reminders
Even with improved testing, mileage still depends on:
- Driving habits
- Loads and terrain
- Traffic and weather
- Regular maintenance
However, the gap between claimed and actual results will narrow significantly
Building Trust: Expert Insights
Benefits for Industry and Consumers
This new rule promises:
- Increased customer trust
- Stronger brand credibility
- Fairer competition among carmakers
Manufacturers will be motivated to innovate in areas like AC efficiency and energy management, particularly for electric vehicles.
Special Focus: Electric Vehicles
Why This Matters for EV Buyers
- Clearer understanding of range loss due to AC
- Better trip planning
- More accurate real-world expectations
Transparent range reporting is key to building consumer confidence in India’s growing EV market.
Conclusion
India’s upcoming mileage testing rules are a bold and necessary reform. By factoring in real-world conditions—especially AC usage—they bridge the gap between lab results and everyday driving.
- For buyers: Greater clarity and confidence
- For automakers: Incentives for transparency and better engineering
- For the industry: A step towards a more consumer-centric market
This is a positive move for both Indian car owners and the automotive sector at large.
FAQs
October 1, 2026.
Yes, EVs will be tested for range with AC both on and off.
Previous tests followed European standards, which don’t account for Indian conditions.
No direct price increase is expected, as the change affects only testing and reporting.
They may look lower, but they’ll be much closer to what owners actually experience.