Nitin Gadkari Demands Real Mileage Figures – Car Brands Must Stop Overpromising
Bottom line: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced a new mileage testing rule that forces Indian car manufacturers to report fuel‑economy numbers that match real‑world driving conditions.
Nitin Gadkari Demands Real Mileage Figures – Car Brands Must Stop Overpromising
Image: Nitin Gadkari Demands Real Mileage Figures – Car Brands Must Stop Overpromising – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
While the rule focuses on fuel efficiency, it also nudges brands to be more transparent about the overall value they offer. Many new models sport sleek exteriors, LED lighting, and cabin upgrades that look great on paper. However, buyers now have a clearer benchmark—real mileage—to decide if the design premium is justified.
Performance & Mileage
Current mileage claims often come from ideal lab tests that ignore traffic, AC usage, and driver habits. Gadkari’s directive mandates a standardized on‑road test covering:
- City driving with frequent stops.
- Highway cruising at 80‑100 km/h.
- Typical Indian climate conditions.
Manufacturers must publish the averaged figure alongside the lab number. This move protects consumers from inflated claims like “25 km/l on paper, 15 km/l on road.” Expect more honest brochures and fewer surprise fuel bills.
Price & Rivals
Real mileage directly influences the total cost of ownership. A car that promises 20 km/l but delivers 14 km/l ends up costing significantly more over five years. With the new rule, price‑sensitive buyers can compare models on a level field.
Here’s a snapshot of a few popular segments, showing how the upcoming test could reshape rankings:
| Engine | Mileage (km/l) | Price (INR) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Petrol | 15 (lab) / 13 (real) | 9.5 lakh |
|
| 1.2L Diesel | 19 (lab) / 16 (real) | 10.2 lakh |
|
| 1.0L Turbo Petrol | 18 (lab) / 15 (real) | 11.0 lakh |
|
FAQ
- What is the new mileage testing rule? It requires car makers to conduct a standardized on‑road fuel‑economy test that reflects typical Indian driving conditions and publish the real‑world figure alongside the laboratory number.
- Will this rule affect the price of new cars? Prices may stay the same, but the total cost of ownership becomes clearer. Buyers can now judge whether a higher price is worth the actual fuel savings.
- Is the rule applicable to all car segments? Yes, the mandate covers passenger cars, SUVs, and hatchbacks sold in India, ensuring uniform transparency across the market.
What do you think about the new mileage rule? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
