India pushes back six car airbags rule by a year to Oct 2023

India will require all passenger cars to have a minimum of six airbags from October 1, 2023 – a year later than originally planned, the road transport minister said on Thursday.

The move, aimed at improving safety in a country that has the world's deadliest roads, was initially planned for October 1, 2022, but faced resistance from some carmakers.

"Considering the global supply chain constraints being faced by the auto industry and its impact on the macroeconomic scenario," the rules will be implemented from October 2023, Nitin Gadkari said.

Draft airbag rules were made public in January and were expected to be finalised a month later, but faced resistance from carmakers including Maruti Suzuki (MRTI.NS).

Maruti said the move would increase vehicle prices and drive out a chunk of buyers.

In India, the world's fourth-largest car market, the majority of cars sold are priced below $15,000.

Two airbags – one each for the driver and front passenger – are already mandatory. The government estimates adding four more would cost no more than $75. Auto market data provider JATO Dynamics, however, estimates it could increase costs by at least $231.

Several carmakers typically offer six airbags in higher, pricier variants, but not the base model.

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