Migration from MIDC to WLTP in India: Challenges & Solutions for a Small Commercial Vehicle

In line with global peers (EU, Japan etc.), the Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) Committee in India has decided to adopt "World harmonized Light vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP)" for M and N category vehicles with GVW not exceeding 3500 kg. As a result, "World harmonized Light-duty vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC )" is set to replace currently applicable "Modified Indian Drive Cycle (MIDC)" in the next couple of years. The draft CAFE III & CAFE IV norms for CO2 emission limits, which are set to be implemented in 2027 and 2032 respectively refer to a shift to WLTP from MIDC. This migration to WLTP is in sync with the demand for test procedures to replicate real driving conditions more appropriately. Further, with the Indian automotive sector growing at a robust CAGR of ~9%, the move to WLTP along with stricter emission norms is going to help the government take a major step towards India's COP26 pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2070. WLTC cycle being much more dynamic with higher average speeds and acceleration compared to MIDC, shifting from MIDC to WLTP has major impact on the vehicle CO2 emission. Additionally gaseous pollutants like NOx also increase significantly with WLTC. To meet stricter future emission standards, vehicle manufacturers must implement various measures depending on application. This study takes into consideration the impact of change in test procedure on a conventional small commercial vehicle. Using the well validated models from FEV, simulations were performed to quantify the differences in various gaseous emissions under both MIDC and WLTP with base calibration. Further a step wise approach is detailed to have vehicles compliant with upcoming norms. The methodology lists both passive measures like calibration and hardware upgrades (e.g., change in injection pressure) as well as active measures including deploying additional technologies like advanced aftertreatment systems and hybridization etc. to improve fuel efficiency as well as reduce tail pipe emissions.