The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India, and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), launched the Motor Vehicle Energy Consumption Calculation Tool (Bharat VECTO) for Real Drive Fuel Consumption/CO2 Emissions project in August 2024. The ceremony was graced by the Honourable Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, alongside key figures from the automotive and research sectors.
The Bharat VECTO project represents a major advancement in India’s vehicle homologation process. This innovative tool aims to calculate the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of Heavy Duty Vehicles (HDVs) with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) greater than 3.5 tonnes, simulating real-world driving conditions. It is designed to align with emission standards seen in leading automotive markets, including Europe, the USA, Japan, and China. Once finalised, Bharat VECTO will be integrated into India’s BS-VII regulatory framework.
The development of this tool was driven by the Standing Committee on Implementation of Emission Legislations (SCOE), which recognised the need for such a tool to monitor and regulate emissions under the upcoming BS-VII norms. The SCOE directed ARAI, in partnership with the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), to develop the Bharat VECTO. ARAI was tasked with leading this initiative, and it formed a consortium to spearhead the project alongside industry stakeholders.
The Bharat VECTO tool will account for various mission profiles, considering multiple driving patterns, road terrains, and vehicle categories. The tool will undergo thorough evaluation on selected vehicle categories before being finalised for widespread adoption. In subsequent phases, it will be applicable to vehicles powered by Internal Combustion Engines (ICE), Electric Vehicles (EVs), Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), and Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFVs).
ARAI has committed to advancing this project alongside OEMs to ensure its success. Once finalised, the Bharat VECTOtool will be incorporated into the BS-VII norms, marking a significant step forward in India’s environmental and energy conservation efforts.
In addition to the Bharat VECTO project, ARAI is showcasing its commitment to green mobility at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, from January 17 to 22. ARAI's exhibition includes a range of cutting-edge technologies aimed at enhancing India's shift toward sustainable transportation. Notably, ARAI is displaying the Over-Head Automated Charging Device (OH-ACD), a pathbreaking project developed in collaboration with IIT-Madras. The OH-ACD, capable of 600kW charging power, is designed to accelerate the transition to fast charging for electric vehicles, featuring 1000V voltage and 600A current.
Further innovations on display include the ADAS Validation Platform, a Light Commercial Vehicle with an E-Axle and 117 HP Engine designed for European markets, as well as the Battery Management System Training Kit. The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Powertrain also takes centre stage at the event, demonstrating ARAI’s leadership in advancing green mobility solutions.
In addition to these groundbreaking innovations, ARAI is also displaying its Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) Bike and showcasing Light Weight Components from the ARAI Fatigue Material Centre of Excellence, along with engine models and a comprehensive service portfolio for component, system, and sub-system certification.
Dr. Reji Mathai, Director of ARAI, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, stating, 'It is a great pleasure to host Honourable Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari and have his presence for the launch of the Bharat VECTO project. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has played a pivotal role in guiding the automotive industry towards a greener future. The Bharat VECTO tool will accelerate the industry's transition to green mobility by providing an effective method for estimating fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.”
He further added, 'At ARAI, we remain committed to driving innovation in sustainable mobility. Our technologies such as the Over-Head Automated Charging Device and the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Powertrain are examples of how we are preparing India for the faster adoption of green technologies. We are excited to showcase these solutions at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo and continue our efforts towards a greener tomorrow.'
ARAI’s exhibition at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo highlights its pivotal role in shaping India’s automotive future, offering innovative solutions that support the country’s transition to cleaner, more efficient transportation technologies.