The automobile manufacturers can rest in peace, for at least three years. Energy-efficiency star ratings are not likely to be made mandatory from 2011, as proposed earlier.
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is of the view that the industry may need more time to adapt to its energy labeling for passenger cars.
The government has been trying to implement the energy efficiency rating for vehicles for the last few years, but has been unsuccessful owing to resistance from the industry.
However, after the government announced emission intensity cut targets of 20-25% on the eve of climate change summit in Copenhagen, BEE proposed introducing star ratings in the market on a voluntary basis from January 2010, and subsequently making it mandatory from 2011.
“We are facing resistance from the car manufacturers. After we introduce our star ratings for cars in January 2010, and the consumer demand for fuel efficient cars go up, I am sure car manufacturers will switch on their own to fuel-efficient cars. This process will take at least three years,” said Ajay Mathur, Director General, BEE.
When BEE, a statutory body that falls under the Ministry of Power, announced its plans to issue star ratings to cars on the basis of their fuel efficiency, there was much resistance from the auto sector.
“The country is already gearing towards moving to Bharat Stage (BS) III norms from January 1, 2010, with eleven major cities including metros even moving to BS IV. The road and transport ministry is of the view that at a time when there are already so many energy efficiency ratings waiting in the pipeline, introduction of another type of fuel efficiency rating will create a problem.
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