SC decision on diesel vehicles isn't optimal: Auto industry

New Delhi, Dec 16: Auto industry today reacted with disappointment at the Supreme Court's order to ban registration of diesel SUVs and cars with engines above 2,000 cc, in Delhi and NCR till March 31 next year, saying the decision "isn't optimal".

The industry players also called for a comprehensive view of various factors causing pollution to deal with the problem.

"So, even if we believe the decision on diesel vehicles isn't optimal, we'll honour it and develop vehicles that comply with their stipulations," Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra tweeted.

He said: "I have always believed that the Supreme Court is an institution that sustains our faith in social justice and democracy in India."

Sharing similar views, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Vice-Chairman Vikram Kirloskar said: "There are various sources of pollution which can be measured using a scientific source apportionment study. "To improve the air quality from vehicle point of view we must take a comprehensive view of various factors causing pollution."

The worst hit by the Supreme Court order are German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz and Tata Motors-owned JLR as their entire diesel model range is powered by engines above 2,000 cc. Mercedes-Benz sells a total of 24 models in India starting with the A-Class, priced at Rs 27.5 lakh, going up to Rs 2.7 crore for the S63 AMG coupe (all prices ex-showroom, Delhi).

Tata Motors-owned JLR's Jaguar line up ranges from the Jaguar XF price starting at Rs 47.67 lakh to Jaguar F-Type which is tagged at Rs 1.88 crore (ex-showroom Delhi). The Land Rover vehicle models start from the Range Rover Evoque to the top end Range Rover priced between Rs 50.5 lakh and Rs 3.93 crore (ex-showroom Delhi).

Delhi, along with Mumbai, is the largest market for luxury vehicles in India. According to industry estimates, the capital city accounts for about 20 per cent of total luxury vehicle sales in the country.

PTI