Indian Automobile Regulations: What You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re designing, importing, or selling a vehicle in India, the rulebook is massive. Missing a single clause can mean fines, a forced recall, or even a factory shutdown. Below we break down the most important regulations in plain language so you can act fast and stay clear of trouble.

Key Emission and Safety Standards

India follows the Bharat Stage (BS) system, which mirrors European emission norms. As of 2025, BS‑VI is mandatory for all new cars and two‑wheelers. That means your engine must meet strict limits on NOx, PM, and HC emissions. If you’re using plastic components, they must be lightweight yet durable enough to keep the car within the BS‑VI limits.

Safety is tackled by the Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) and the Global NCAP crash‑test protocol. Every passenger car must have dual front airbags, ABS, and a sturdy body shell that passes the 30 km/h offset test. For two‑wheelers, helmet‑mounting points and reflective elements are now compulsory.

Registration and road‑tax rules differ state‑by‑state, but the central government mandates a uniform vehicle registration certificate (RC) and a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Forgetting the PUC can land you a fine of up to ₹5,000.

New Rules for Electric Vehicles and Future Trends

The FAME II scheme is still alive, offering up to 10% subsidy on EV purchases and a 30% tax rebate for manufacturers that source at least 30% of parts locally. If you’re making plastic battery housings, this is a golden window: local content means you qualify for the incentive.

From April 2025, every new vehicle must come with an on‑board diagnostics (OBD) port that logs emissions data in real time. This helps authorities monitor compliance without roadside checks. It also means your factory’s quality‑control team must install firmware updates before the vehicle leaves the line.

Lastly, the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2024 tightened penalties for non‑compliance. Repeat offenders can face up to ₹2 lakh per violation and have their license suspended for six months. The law also mandates a “green compliance officer” for any OEM that produces over 10,000 units annually.

Bottom line: stay on top of BS‑VI, embed the required safety gear, keep your PUC up to date, and tap into EV subsidies. Ignoring these steps will cost you time, money, and reputation.

Urban Polymers India can help you meet the plastic‑component standards that keep vehicles light and compliant. Our sustainable polymers are designed to pass BS‑VI emission tests while offering the strength needed for crash safety. Reach out to our team to explore how our solutions fit your next model.

Ready to get your vehicles on the road without a hitch? Start by checking the latest notifications on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways website, then audit your current parts for compliance. A quick compliance check today can save you a massive headache tomorrow.