Planning to Buy an EV? Its Driving Range Figure Could Change Under New Government Testing Rules. Here's Why

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued a notification introducing new testing procedures for M1 category passenger vehicles. The amendments have been incorporated under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules framework and add specific requirements related to vehicle performance when air-conditioning systems are in use.

EV Range Measurement to Include Air-Conditioning Operation

One of the key changes introduces a new testing method for electric powertrain vehicles in the M1 category. Under the revised framework, the driving range of electric vehicles will be measured with the air-conditioning system operating, in accordance with AIS-213 standards as amended from time to time.

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The move could provide a more representative assessment of vehicle range under commonly encountered operating conditions, particularly in regions where air-conditioning usage is frequent.

Fuel Consumption Tests Also Revised

The notification also introduces a separate requirement for fuel consumption testing of M1 category vehicles with the air-conditioning system in operation. The assessment will likewise follow AIS-213 standards.

The addition creates a common framework for evaluating the impact of air-conditioning usage on vehicle efficiency across applicable passenger vehicle categories.

Implementation From April 2027

According to the notification, both the EV range measurement procedure and the fuel consumption test with air-conditioning operation will become applicable from April 1, 2027. Manufacturers seeking certification for affected vehicle categories will need to comply with the updated testing requirements from that date onward.

Elctrik Speaks

The amendment reflects a shift toward testing vehicle performance under operating conditions that more closely resemble everyday usage. For electric vehicles, air-conditioning can influence driving range, while for internal combustion engine vehicles it can affect fuel consumption. By incorporating air-conditioning operation into standardized testing procedures, the revised framework may provide consumers, regulators, and manufacturers with a more consistent basis for evaluating vehicle efficiency and performance.