In India, the Bharat Stage Emission Standards (BSES) regulate the emissions of pollutants from petrol and diesel engines. Particularly, lowering the air concentrations of dangerous gasses including nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons is the goal of the BS4 (Bharat Stage 4) and BS6 (Bharat Stage 6) criteria.
According to Statista, India’s per capita emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂) have increased dramatically in the last several years, from 0.39 metric tons in 1970 to a peak of 1.91 metric tons in 2022. Here in this article, we have discussed what is the difference between BS4 and BS6. So, let’s get started.
Table of Contents
What Is BS4: What You Need to Know?
The Indian government established BS4 emission norms, also known as Bharat Stage 4 emission standards, as a collection of rules to limit the amount of pollutants that cars release into the environment.
These regulations, which apply to all cars made or sold in India, set limits on the amount of harmful gasses, such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, that can be released into the atmosphere.
The implementation of BS4 standards is crucial for lowering air pollution and enhancing air quality in metropolitan areas. Newer models that adhere to these guidelines include advanced features including exhaust systems that reduce emissions. Starting in April 2017, all newly constructed cars must adhere to BS4 norms.
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1. Implementation Timeline And Regulations
The Indian government introduced the implementation protocol and recommendations for the Bharat Stage 4 (BS4) emission standards, which aimed to reduce air pollution by controlling vehicle emissions.
The vehicle makers are provided with strict limitations about the allowable limits for several pollutants emitted by cars under the BS4 standards. The well-planned, phased technique of this transition from BS3 to BS4 standard allowed manufacturers enough time to adapt their production lines and conform to the new standards.
The implementation timetable states that as of April 1, 2017, all new cars sold in India have to meet BS4 requirements. Moreover, before being upgraded to meet BS4 criteria, current cars were granted an extra period of time.
The rules contained clear limitations for harmful pollutants released by cars, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and others, ensuring a healthier and more pure environment for all locals.
2. Impact On Vehicle Emissions And Pollution Levels
Vehicle emissions and pollution levels in India have been significantly impacted by the implementation of Bharat Stage 4 (BS4) emission regulations.
Under BS4 regulations, which are comparable to Euro 4 requirements, vehicles are now allowed to produce less dangerous pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.
As a result, newer cars that meet BS4 regulations emit far less than their predecessors. In the end, lowering air pollution levels in significant Indian cities has benefited public health and air quality.
Furthermore, the transition to BS4-permissible cars has made way for the upcoming BS6 emission principles, which promise further greener and cleaner transportation options going forward. Overall, the effect of BS4 on pollution and automobile emissions highlights the need for strict regulatory measures to avoid pollutants from cars that harm the environment.
What Is BS6: What It Means For Your Car’s Performance
The Indian government enforces a set of rules known as BS6 emission standards, or Bharat Stage 6 emission principles, to limit air pollution from automobiles. These regulations aim to reduce the amount of dangerous pollutants that gasoline and diesel cars emit, such as particulate matter, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide.
The BS6 standards have specified lower limitations on the emissions of toxins than their predecessor, the BS4 principles. Vehicle manufacturers must use advanced vehicle emission control technologies, such as Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), to comply with BS6 norms and fulfill the stringent emission requirements.
1. Implementation Timeline And Regulations
A significant turning point toward cleaner and more affordable vehicle emissions has been reached in the automotive industry with the implementation schedule and recommendations of BS6 emission regulations.
On April 1, 2020, the Indian government started enforcing the BS6 standards, which mandate that all newly sold cars in the nation meet these more stringent pollution regulations.
By reducing the amount of dangerous pollutants that cars emit, such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, these rules hope to enhance both public health and air quality. The adoption of BS6 emission regulations has accelerated automotive development.
2. Advancements And Improvements Over BS4
India made a major leap when it moved from BS4 to BS6 emission norms in terms of reducing vehicle pollution and improving air quality. One of the primary advancements of BS6 over its predecessor is the attempt to minimize harmful emissions such as particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxide (NOx).
Furthermore, the reduced sulfur concentration of BS6 fuels further reduces emissions upon ignition. The implementation of these improvements complies with international standards and carries a duty for a sustainable course of events and environmental protection.
Consequently, automobiles that adhere to BS6 norms emit fewer pollutants. They are therefore a better choice for customers and the environment because they use less fuel and operate better overall.
What Is The Difference Between BS4 And BS6: Which Is Better for the Environment
In India, emission guidelines and limitations are determined by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), a division of the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change.
These guidelines are intended to control the quantity of pollutants released into the atmosphere by different companies, automobiles, and other sources to reduce environmental pollution and protect human health in the process.
When it comes to limiting emissions and ways to achieve a significant reduction in harmful toxins, BS6 is stricter than BS4. The release of BS6 standards is a step toward balancing Indian vehicle emission regulations with global norms, ensuring improved air quality and overall health outcomes.
Particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and other harmful pollutants have clear guidelines for emissions according to these principles.
Companies must install pollution control technology and routinely monitor their emissions to ensure compliance with these criteria. Furthermore, automobile makers must adhere to Bharat Stage (BS) emission regulations, which set the maximum levels of toxins that cars are permitted to release.
| BS4 | BS6 |
| Introduced in 2010 | Introduced in 2020 |
| Set limits on particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur oxides (SOx). | Significantly stricter limits on all pollutants, especially particulate matter. |
| While BS4 introduced stricter norms, its impact on air quality was limited compared to BS6. | BS6 has had a substantial positive impact on air quality in India. It has led to a significant reduction in particulate matter, especially PM2.5, which is particularly harmful to human health. |
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1. Technological Advancements And Changes In Vehicle Manufacturing
The automobile manufacturing business has been significantly impacted by mechanical advancements, particularly with the shift from Bharat Stage 4 (BS4) to Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms.
Vehicle designs and manufacturing procedures have had to alter significantly to comply with BS6, with a focus on reducing harmful emissions and enhancing overall eco-friendliness.
Manufacturers have had to use cutting-edge technology such as Gasoline Particulate Filters (GPF), Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) to comply with the stricter BS6 regulation standards.
We may anticipate other developments that will influence the future of car manufacturing by environmental preservation goals as manufacturers continue to advance and adapt.
2. Cost Implications For Consumers And Manufacturers
The automotive industry’s transition from BS4 to BS6 emission standards has significant cost implications for both manufacturers and consumers. Customers usually pay more for BS6 cars because they require more sophisticated equipment to comply with the tighter emission regulations.
Moreover, since cleaner fuels are usually needed for BS6 cars, which are more expensive than regular gas or diesel, support and fuel costs may also be greater. On the other hand, manufacturers must deal with increased production costs in addition to possible retrofitting expenditures for current models to design and produce consistent vehicles.
Why You Need To Upgrade From BS4 to BS6: Which Is Better
India has benefited greatly from the transition from BS4 to BS6 standards, which has also marked a major stride in the country’s direction toward becoming cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable. Below are the advantages of shifting from BS4 to BS6.
1. Improved Air Quality
- Reduced Particulate Matter (PM): BS6 vehicles emit significantly less PM, a major contributor to air pollution and health problems.
- Cleaner Air: Cleaner air leads to improved respiratory health and overall well-being.
- Reduced Health Risks: Exposure to air pollution is linked to various health issues, including heart disease, respiratory diseases, and cancer. BS6 helps mitigate these risks.
2. Environmental Benefits
- Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: BS6 vehicles emit fewer greenhouse gases, contributing to efforts to combat climate change.
- Sustainable Transportation: BS6 standards promote a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation sector.
3. Economic Benefits
- Increased Exports: BS6-compliant vehicles are more attractive to international markets, boosting exports.
- Technological Advancement: The transition to BS6 has led to advancements in automotive technology and manufacturing processes.
4. Public Health Benefits
- Reduced Mortality: Cleaner air has been linked to a decrease in premature deaths related to air pollution.
- Improved Quality of Life: Better air quality enhances overall quality of life and well-being.
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What Are The Challenges And Roadblocks In The Transition To BS6: What Happens If You Upgrade
For car manufacturers transitioning from BS4 to BS6 criteria, the cost of consistency and execution is crucial due to the extensive testing, mechanical redesigns, and interest in creative work required to achieve the more stringent emission regulations.
- To meet the requirements of the BS6 guidelines, which demand a significant reduction in harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxide and particulate matter, manufacturers must restructure their production processes, adopt cutting-edge technologies like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems, and source cleaner fuel.
- This change will result in greater costs for manufacturers since it necessitates significant testing and validation procedures to ensure compliance with the new requirements. Additionally, the development of new motors or the installation of emission control in already-existing vehicles increases the financial burden on manufacturers.
- Even with the substantial upfront costs associated with consistency, the transition to BS6 ultimately improves public health by lowering air pollution levels and improving overall air quality.
- The availability of gasoline and cars that meet BS6 requirements is becoming more and more important as countries shift to more strict emission regulations. To reduce air pollution, countries like India have accepted Bharat Stage VI (BS6) emission norms.
- Additionally, ensuring the availability of fuel that complies with BS6 is essential to increasing the efficiency and performance of these high-level vehicles. States and partners should collaborate to provide a framework that supports the widespread acceptance of gasoline and cars compliant with BS6, eventually adding to improved air quality for all.
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Wrap-Up On What Is The Difference Between BS4 And BS6
Overall, the main difference between the BS4 and BS6 emission standards is essentially the degree of limitations to regulate the emissions of pollutants from vehicle engines.
The upgrade from BS4 to BS6, which places far tighter restrictions on harmful substances including nitrogen oxide, hydrocarbons, and particulate matter, suggests a significant increase in exhaust emission control standards.
We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you learn what is the difference between BS4 and BS6. If you still have any questions or doubts regarding these standards, please let us know in the comments below.
FAQ: What Is The Difference Between BS4 And BS6
The automotive industry has been discussing BS4 and BS6 emission criteria a lot lately. A lot of people are curious about the differences between the two and how they affect their cars. To help clarify any confusion, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about BS4 and BS6.
Q1. How Do BS4 And BS6 Affect The Performance Of A Vehicle?
Ans: Even while BS6 automobiles may perform somewhat worse than BS4 vehicles, this is essentially a negligible difference that most drivers won’t notice. BS6 cars could also be more environmentally friendly due to the state-of-the-art technology employed to reduce emissions. The transition from BS4 to BS6 shouldn’t have a major impact on a vehicle’s overall performance.
Q2. Is It Necessary To Upgrade To A BS6 Vehicle?
Ans: It is recommended to upgrade to a BS6 car when the time comes to replace your current vehicle, even if it is not necessary to do so immediately. Cleaner air is produced by vehicles that meet BS6 emissions requirements, which are beneficial for the environment.
Q3. Are BS6 Vehicles More Expensive Than BS4 Vehicles?
Ans: Because BS6 cars are anticipated to meet the strict emission criteria, they may be slightly more expensive than BS4 vehicles due to the advanced technology and cleaner energy sources.
