Auto makers seek changes to BS-VII rollout, Maruti Suzuki CEO says SIAM members are united

The Centre is preparing to bring in BS-VII emission norms to reduce pollution from vehicles. Automobile companies have, however, sought some changes in when and how the norms are applied. Hisashi Takeuchi, managing director and CEO of Maruti Suzuki India, said member companies of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) are moving ahead united on this demand.

SIAM has told the government that the brake and tyre norms should apply from April 2035 instead of April 2031. The issue arose after responses from vehicle makers and component makers. A key part of the discussion is that there should be proper preparation for the new norms, room for the necessary changes in technology, and full time for implementation.

According to the draft of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the first phase of BS-VII emission norms for M1 category passenger vehicles is proposed to apply from April 1, 2029. Further phases are planned for 2031 and 2035. The norms cover exhaust emissions, minimum battery performance for electric cars and plug-in hybrid vehicles, and control of particles produced by brake and tyre wear. The norms are still at the draft stage.

Asked about the impact on car prices, Takeuchi said BS-VII is likely to affect vehicle prices once it comes into force, but how much is still under discussion. For this reason he gave no firm figure on how much Maruti Suzuki car prices would rise. If the cost of making vehicles goes up, part of the burden could fall on customers. Balancing implementation of the norms with keeping cars affordable will therefore be important for companies.

According to Takeuchi, along with the goal of cutting pollution, it is also necessary to maintain the current pace of sales. He said that after the GST reforms of September 2025, Maruti Suzuki's sales are higher than last year, despite a larger base last year. Talks with the government are continuing through SIAM, and an effort is on to find a path that is sustainable for both the environment and the industry. The government's next decision on the norms will now be important.