Cars to get costlier in 2023 with these new BS6 upgrades: Self-diagnostic device, advanced FI & more – Times of India

As automakers prepare to upgrade their models to meet BS6 phase 2 emission norms, customers will be paying more for the upgraded vehicles due to stricter emission norms kicking in from April 2023. To comply with the second phase of BS6 norms which will make Indian vehicular emissions norms the equivalent of Euro VI norms, both passenger and commercial vehicles will be fitted with more sophisticated equipment as standard. This would add to the overall production cost that will be passed over to buyers from next year. Here are the notable upgrades that upcoming BS6 phase 2 vehicles will feature.

Self-diagnostic device:
As reported by the Economic Times, vehicles will now need to be equipped with a self-diagnostic device. The device will constantly monitor the vehicle’s emission levels while driving, it will also monitor other critical emission devices such as the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors. The BS6 phase 2 mandated device will warn drivers when emissions exceed prescribed parameters and remind them to get the vehicle serviced.
Programmed fuel injectors:
The newer vehicles will also feature programmed fuel injectors. These injectors will assist in bringing the amount of fuel burnt under control. Fuel injectors control the timing and amount of fuel and air injected into an ICE engine during every combustion cycle.

Upgraded semiconductor:
While the industry continues to face a massive semiconductor shortage, the BS6 phase 2 emission norms would require automakers to install better, upgraded semiconductors in newer vehicles from April 2023. The more sophisticated semiconductors will monitor the vehicle’s throttle, crankshaft positions, air intake pressure, engine temperature and emission contents such as CO2 and particulate matter.

While these upgrades are likely to lead to a marginal increase in overall vehicle prices, ICRA Vice President, Rohan Kanwar Gupta states that a big investment will be required for incorporating the self-diagnostic device and related hardware and software. Moreover, considering OEMs have had to announce several price hikes to counter inflation in the past 15 to 18 months, the additional increase in cost could have a moderate effect on demand, Gupta warns.