India is no stranger to extreme heat, especially during the peak summer months when temperatures easily soar beyond 45°C, and in some parts even touch 50°C. In such weather, air conditioners both in homes and cars are not just luxury features but absolute necessities. Modern car manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, Kia, Mahindra and others have been continuously improving their AC systems to offer better cooling performance. Some premium models even come with advanced features like ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and rear AC vents for enhanced comfort. But New Car AC Rule are there which will limit your AC experience.
But now, the Government of India is bringing a new rule that may change how we use air conditioning, especially in vehicles. Let’s break it down in simple words, and understand how this will affect car buyers, existing car owners, and overall automobile industry in India.
What is the New New Car AC Rule?
Recently, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, announced that a new provision will soon be implemented to standardize temperature settings for air conditioners across India — this includes both home and car AC units.
As per this rule:
- Air conditioners will be allowed to operate only between 20°C to 28°C.
- You won’t be able to set your car AC below 20°C or above 28°C.
- Currently, most car ACs allow temperatures as low as 16°C, which will no longer be permitted once the rule takes effect.
Why Is The Government Introducing This Rule?
The primary reasons behind this move are:
1. Energy Conservation
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has long advocated that 24°C is the most energy-efficient temperature that offers both comfort and saves electricity. Running ACs at extremely low temperatures not only consumes more power but also increases the strain on national electricity grids.
2. Climate Change Control
India is witnessing severe climatic changes, frequent heatwaves, and rising pollution levels. The government wants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable consumption patterns. Air conditioners are significant contributors to energy use and indirectly to carbon emissions.
3. Uniform Standards Across Industries
Standardizing temperature settings will ensure that manufacturers follow uniform guidelines, whether it’s for home AC units or automobile air conditioning systems.
How Will It Affect Car Buyers and Owners?
For car buyers planning to purchase new cars from brands like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata Motors, Kia, Mahindra, and others, here are some important things to know:
- Comfort Levels May Slightly Change
If you’re used to setting your AC at 16-18°C during extreme summers, you’ll need to adjust. A lower limit of 20°C may feel slightly warmer but still comfortable with efficient cabin insulation. - More Emphasis on Cabin Insulation
Car manufacturers may start improving insulation, sunshade materials, and ventilation designs to compensate for the restricted AC temperature range. - Lower Fuel Consumption in Petrol/Diesel Cars
Running AC at slightly higher temperatures (like 24°C) reduces load on the compressor, which in turn may slightly improve fuel efficiency. - Better Range for EV Owners
For electric cars like Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV400 EV, MG ZS EV, BYD Atto 3, and Hyundai Kona Electric, efficient AC usage helps in preserving battery range.
How Are Car Brands Likely to Respond?
Manufacturers may focus on introducing:
- Advanced Cabin Air Filters & Purifiers
- Automatic Climate Control Systems with AI-powered temperature adjustment
- UV-protected windshields and windows to block excessive heat
- Ventilated and Cooled Seats for added comfort
- Solar reflective paints and coatings on car roofs
Rival Cars & Brands That Will Be Affected
Since this rule applies across the board, all major car manufacturers in India will have to comply, including:
- Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Swift, Fronx, Baleno, Brezza
- Hyundai Creta, i20, Verna, Alcazar
- Tata Nexon, Punch, Harrier, Safari
- Kia Seltos, Sonet, Carens, EV6
- Mahindra Scorpio-N, XUV700, Thar, Bolero
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Innova Hycross, Fortuner
- Honda City, Elevate, Amaze
- MG Hector, Astor, ZS EV
- Volkswagen Virtus, Taigun
- Skoda Slavia, Kushaq
When Will This New Car AC Rule Come Into Effect?
As of now, no exact implementation date has been declared. However, since the statement came from a Union Minister, it is expected that detailed guidelines will be issued soon, possibly within 2025 itself. Initially, the rule may apply to all new car manufacturing and later be extended to existing car models.
FAQs for Car Buyers: New Car AC Rule India
Most likely, the rule will apply first to new cars. Existing car owners may not need to modify their AC units immediately.
Not really. 20°C is still quite cool. Modern insulation, cabin design, and airflow adjustments will ensure sufficient comfort.
Yes, slightly. Less compressor load means marginally better fuel economy.
Yes. In fact, EV owners may benefit more as AC load affects electric range significantly.
Efficient cabin design, ventilated seats, tinted windows, and UV protection will balance the comfort levels even during extreme heat.
Final Thoughts
While many people may initially feel that restricting car air conditioner temperatures could reduce comfort, in reality, it’s a well-thought-out move aimed at balancing comfort, sustainability, energy conservation, and environmental responsibility.
For Indian car buyers planning to buy cars in 2025 and beyond, it is important to focus not only on AC performance but also on overall cabin insulation, ventilation, seat ventilation, and advanced cooling technologies offered by the manufacturer.
