NEW DELHI: The road transport ministry has proposed new vehicle standards — provision of testing AC and heating system in agricultural tractors; and type approval norm for troop carriers (defence or police) and trailer caravans in India.As per the draft automotive industry standards (AIS), the norms for type approval for caravans has gained currency considering that caravan tourism has become popular owing to the freedom and flexibility it provides, while holidaying vis-à-vis itineraries and accommodation. It said trailer caravans are a unique tourism product being used for the purpose of travel, leisure and accommodation to promote tours even in destinations which are not having adequate hotel accommodation.The standard proposed for AC cabins in agricultural tractors will bring relief to farmers and others who often work in harsh weather conditions. The proposed standard will be applicable to agricultural and forestry tractors which come fitted with cabins and are provided with AC system, except the hybrid electric and pure electric agricultural tractors.TOI has learnt that the ministry has proposed specific norms for “Type Approval of Troop Carriers” considering that these are built on chassis of buses or trucks. Changes are made to meet the operational requirement and this, in some cases, become a hurdle for registration of these vehicles.These vehicles usually have additional provisions for carrying equipment for maintaining law and order and internal security, performing duties in peace and war.The proposed standard specifies the norms for getting the type approvals by the original manufacturers or the body builders. Once they obtain the type approval, registration of such vehicles will be smooth, officials said.
