Implementation of Bharat Stage IV still unresolved

The fourth stage of the Bharat emission standard may not reach the target of 50 Indian cities by 2015.

Environmental concerns over domestically-produced fuel sulphur content have driven India's Auto Fuel Policy to create a single, normative emission standard.

However, rather than legislating for pan-India compliance, the plan has involved city-wise phasing as some refineries did not have the necessary grade of fuel.

Since 2010 the Bharat standard has so far been implemented in just 13 Indian cities. Now the norms are set to be implemented on a state-wise basis depending on the readiness of the car manufacturers.

However, auto makers and oil companies are disputing their readiness to comply with the emission norms. Car producers claim that their readiness would be based on the availability of different fuel grades, while the oil companies claim they are ready to supply the required grade of fuel.  The fuel producers state that their domestic refinery infrastructure has been upgraded significantly over the past few years.

Efforts are being made, according to India's carmakers, to increase engine performance and reduce kerb weight for greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.