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Highlighted industries are sectors that drive economic growth, innovation, and job creation. They often involve cutting-edge technologies, sustainable solutions.
A vehicle or any of its parts must undergo a rigorous certification process before being sold in India. This process ensures that the design and performance meet government safety and quality standards. The certificate issued upon passing all required tests is known as the Type Approval Certificate (TAC).
The Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR), implemented in 1989, define how vehicles in India must be constructed, tested, and maintained. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is the primary authority responsible for managing emission standards, production compliance, and type certification. A special committee led by the Joint Secretary of MoRTH provides recommendations on implementing and updating these rules.
TAC certification is essential to ensure that a vehicle or component complies with all technical, safety, and environmental requirements. Every product undergoes several tests before approval.
If a company manufactures multiple models or variations in small quantities (less than 250 in six months), testing agencies may test only one representative model per year. This helps speed up the approval process without compromising quality.
TAC stands for Type Approval Certificate. It confirms that a vehicle or component meets Indian standards for design, safety, and performance. No product can be sold or used in India without this certification.
TAC certification is part of the homologation process, which verifies a vehicle's suitability for Indian roads. It includes various tests assessing safety, performance, and environmental impact. Once a product clears the tests, it is approved for sale.
The Indian government has established several agencies for vehicle testing and certification. The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), founded in 1966, is one of the most prominent. It collaborates with the government and automobile companies to ensure compliance with safety and emission standards.
ARAI also assists manufacturers exporting vehicles, as it is recognized by certification bodies in countries such as Singapore, the Netherlands, and Australia.
AIS (Automotive Industry Standard) refers to technical regulations formulated under the Central Motor Vehicle Act, 1989. AIS certification ensures that vehicles and components comply with these standards.
Note: For automotive electronic products, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests may be conducted at the manufacturing site under specific conditions, eliminating the need for separate testing in India.
| Manufacturer Type | Approx. TAC Timeline |
|---|---|
| Indian Manufacturers | Around 1 month |
| Foreign Manufacturers | Up to 2 months |
Timelines may vary depending on test results, inspection delays, or the need for clarifications.
Receiving TAC approval is not the end of the responsibility. Manufacturers must consistently maintain quality and production standards. Regular audits and sample testing may be conducted to ensure ongoing compliance.