ARAI Establishes Dedicated Support Cell to Streamline Bus Body Certification

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has introduced a dedicated support cell to assist bus body builders with mandatory safety certification and compliance processes. The new initiative aims to streamline the required paperwork and provide technical guidance for manufacturers navigating the domestic regulatory framework.

The specialized team will help manufacturers adhere to a three level compliance structure that includes mandatory video inspections and physical safety evaluations. In addition to offering technical and design support for vehicle development, the agency will assist builders in preparing critical documentation. This includes managing variant lists and simplified checklists designed to resolve worst case selection criteria during the certification process.

Under the current regulatory guidelines outlined in GSR 159 (E) issued on March 6, 2024, compliance with the Bus Body Code is compulsory for all passenger vehicles with a seating capacity of 13 or more, excluding the driver. Furthermore, vehicles designed to carry more than 22 passengers must adhere to AIS 153 standards. The strict implementation of these certification protocols is intended to minimize structural discrepancies and reduce related accidents across the commercial passenger vehicle segment.