Govt to Ease Import Norms for High-End EVs, Cars, Superbikes

The government has also let go of the mandatory local conditions testing required for imported vehicles.

This liberalisation of import norms by the government may finally introduce a slew of globally popular car and bike launches.

(Photo: Reuters)

The government is all set to rework and relax restrictions on pricing and engine capacities of imported high-end electric vehicles, vans, luxury cars and superbikes, the The Times of India reported. It also let go of the mandatory local conditions testing required for imported vehicles.

This liberalisation of import norms may finally introduce a slew of globally popular car and bike launches.

Citing sources, The Times of India said that the government will allow import of vehicles that are certified by internationally-accepted certification agencies like the Euro NCAP.

As per the current norms, the import of four wheelers above the value of $40,000 (Rs 27 lakh approx) and two wheelers above 800 cc displacement will be allowed without the mandatory local testing done on imported vehicles under the current norms. These changes, however, will not make any difference to import duties.

TOI further reported that the norms will allow manufacturers to import 2,500 vehicles which will not require local test clearance.

The road transport ministry’s draft notification will give customers an option to buy globally popular models. The draft will also lay down fresh registration guidelines for imported vehicles.

However, it could lead to an extended production cost among some car makers as the imported cars will have a right hand steering and comply with international safety standards.

(With inputs from the Times of India)