As urban emissions continue to rise due to growing vehicular traffic on Indian roads, there has been a clear need to move beyond traditional, lab-based vehicle testing methods. For years, emission levels were assessed under controlled conditions using cycles like the Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC), which were once considered the gold standard for measuring pollutants.
While useful for regulatory benchmarks, these controlled setups often fail to reflect the true emissions a vehicle produces in a real-world scenario. Factors, such as sudden braking, varying speeds, traffic congestion and temperature shifts, are not accounted for in lab vehicle emission testing, creating a significant gap between certified and actual performance. Hence, Real Driving Emissions (RDE) norms under the BS6 Phase 2 regulations were introduced.
These new standards require emission testing to be done in a real-world environment using advanced portable equipment. The goal is to capture the environmental impact of vehicles better as they are actually used. For commuters and conscious consumers, RDE testing norms represent a major step toward a cleaner tomorrow.
What are Real Driving Emission (RDE) Norms?
Real Driving Emissions, generally known by its abbreviation, Real Driving Emissions, refers to a regulatory approach that tests a vehicle’s emissions during actual on-road driving. This testing is done using a Portable Emissions Measurement System (PEMS) mounted on the vehicle, which fetches real-time data on pollutants, like nitrogen oxides (NOs), hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide (CO) and other matters.
RDE norms under BS6 Phase 2 regulations were introduced in India from April 2023 due to growing concerns over carbon emissions. The aim is to ensure that the vehicles running on the roads meet emission standards not just in lab testing but also under the varied and unpredictable conditions of daily commuting.
Why are RDE Norms Important?
India’s switch toward RDE testing reflects a global trend of prioritising real-world environmental impact. Although conventional lab-based tests could be optimised by manufacturers, they did not always reflect the scope of the BS6 emission norms. How a vehicle behaves on the roads filled with potholes, traffic and traffic signals, RDE ensures that a vehicle’s emission control system is effective under actual driving scenarios instead of controlled setups in laboratories.
This is important for regulatory bodies and also consumers. Vehicles that pass automotive emission regulations under RDE are more reliable in terms of emissions and often more fuel efficient in real-world usage, making them a better long-term asset.
The Road Ahead for Riders
For two-wheeled vehicles, real driving emission norms mark a major leap forward. With bikes and scooters forming a significant portion of India’s vehicle population, compliance with RDE norms ensures that even daily commutes contribute less to pollution. Hence, Indian manufacturers, like TVS Motor, have stepped up by enhancing engine technologies, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions, all without compromising performance.
If you are considering a new bike that meets these norms while delivering exemplary performance, style and comfort, TVS Raider stands out as a wise choice. To explore its latest features and check the TVS Raider price, visit your nearest dealership or browse through the website and contribute to a greener planet.
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Reference Links:
https://www.tvsmotor.com/media/blog/rde-norms-all-that-you-need-to-know
https://www.spinny.com/blog/rde-norms-explained/
https://www.tataaig.com/knowledge-center/car-insurance/rde-emission-norms-explained
https://www.autocarpro.in/feature/rde-norms-all-you-need-to-know-114614
https://www.salaryplan.co.in/all/Understanding-RDE-norms/32/blog-detail.htm
