CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) Norms Explained!

CAFE or Corporate Average Fuel Economy emission norms are knocking on the door. Simply put, CAFE Norms will be imposed on the entire fleet of a carmaker, not on individual models. Moreover, unlike BS6, which focused on Hydrocarbons, sulfur, and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. CAFE norms are more concerned about Fuel consumption (quantity of fuel consumed).

Also Read: RDE (Real Driving Emissions) Norm To Go Live On 1st April 2023

CAFE also measures the total amount of carbon dioxide emitted.

BS6 (Bharat Stage 6 Explained) In Great Detail

Two sets of average fuel usage criteria were introduced in 2014. The first would be mandatory starting in 2017–2018 and would be relatively simple to fulfil. From 2022 to 2023, the second set—what we currently have—was in effect.

Purpose of CAFE regulations

However, it is important to know that fuel efficiency is directly proportionate to the Carbon dioxide emission of a vehicle.

• The CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency) regulations aim to reduce the overall COx (Carbon Oxides) from the vehicle’s exhaust.
• The reduced carbon footprint leads to increased fuel economy.
• These regulations were first implemented on 1st April 2017 with BS4 exhaust emission norms.
• It was decided the highest carbon footprint allowed was 130gm per km till 2022. After that, the till will be further reduced to 113gm per km.
• CAFE regulations are in power for all engines. Diesel, Petrol, as well as CNG.

Also Read: BS6 Vs EURO6 | What is the exact difference between the norms?

How is the CO2 Emission Calculated?

In the first step, a manufacturer’s corporate average kerb weight is calculated. A calculation is based on the weight of current individual models and the number of units sold.

After combining all of the models’ CO2 numbers, the final CAFE group target is determined. The average fleet of CO2 emissions in grams per kilometre for each manufacturer is then given.

CAFE & Super Credits

By selling cleaner and greener vehicles, car makers might earn Super Credits. To do this, Battery Electric Cars (BEV), Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVs), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles are used (HEV).

Why is CAFE important?

Even though CAFE regulations are environment-friendly, how will these norms be fair to Indian automotive manufacturers? The manufacturers have no choice but to follow the norms and regulations. It is the environment we are saving.

When CAFE regulations combine with new BS6 norms, it can result in a drastic reduction in emissions. CAFE majorly focuses on COx emissions. BS6, on the other hand, focuses on overall emissions, which include NOx (Nitrogen Oxides) and SOx (Sulphur Oxides).

Read More: BS6 Emission Norms and The Engines which it Killed

Data Source: Autocar India