Automotive Research Association of India

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is a vehicle research and testing body in India that works on fuels, lubricants and fuel-efficiency testing. [1] source: The Hindu BusinessLine[2] source: Mint It has worked with Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) and with the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) on separate projects. [1] source: The Hindu BusinessLine[2] source: Mint

BPCL and ARAI signed an MoU in September 2026 for joint R&D and testing of EV thermal-management fluids, lubricants, fuel additives and next-generation fuels. [1] source: The Hindu BusinessLine The Hindu BusinessLine reported that the work supports vehicle efficiency, E20 compatibility and India's mobility transition. [1] source: The Hindu BusinessLine In August 2026, Mint reported that BEE and ARAI will review the development of Bharat Vecto, an India-specific fuel-consumption simulator that truck makers want in place of stricter CSFC tests. [2] source: Mint The government plans to introduce CSFC norms in April 2027, and Bharat Vecto's diesel launch is planned by December 2026. [2] source: Mint

Mint's report on Bharat Vecto names Ashok Leyland, Montra Electric and Tata Motors alongside the Bureau of Energy Efficiency. [2] source: Mint The report says India sells 800,000-900,000 trucks annually, and that trucks generate about 33% of transport CO2 emissions while making up under 5% of Indian road vehicles. [2] source: Mint