When purchasing car insurance online, one key factor that can affect your premium is the type of engine in your vehicle. In recent years, India has transitioned from Bharat Stage 4 (BS4) to Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission standards for automobiles. This shift has led to significant changes in engine technology and performance, which in turn affects how car insurance plans are priced.
In this article, we'll dive into the key distinctions between BS4 and BS6 engines, explore their impact on vehicle performance and maintenance, and discuss how these factors come into play when comparing car insurance plans online. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to choose the optimal car insurance plan for your needs and budget.
BS4 vs BS6 Engines: What's the Difference?
The primary difference between BS4 and BS6 engines lies in their emission control technology. BS6 standards, which came into effect in April 2020, are much more stringent than the previous BS4 norms. The key changes include:
· Lower Emissions
BS6 engines produce significantly lower levels of pollutants like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter compared to BS4 engines. This helps reduce the environmental impact of vehicles.
· Advanced Technology
To meet the stricter emission norms, BS6 engines incorporate advanced technologies such as Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR). These systems help reduce harmful emissions.
· Higher Initial Cost
The advanced emission control technologies in BS6 engines make them more expensive to manufacture. As a result, BS6 vehicles generally have a higher purchase price compared to similar BS4 models. This initial cost difference is a crucial consideration when purchasing car insurance online.
When you compare car insurance plans online, insurers will take into account the specific make, model and variant of your vehicle, including the engine type. The advanced technology in BS6 engines often translates to higher repair and replacement costs in case of damage, which can result in slightly higher car insurance premiums.
Performance Impact: BS4 vs BS6
While the primary focus of BS6 standards is to reduce emissions, the transition has also had an impact on engine performance. Here's how BS4 and BS6 engines compare in terms of power, torque and driveability:
· Power and Torque
In most cases, the power and torque outputs of BS6 engines are similar to their BS4 counterparts. However, some manufacturers have used the opportunity to tweak their engine tuning, resulting in minor changes to performance figures.
· Throttle Response
BS6 engines generally have a slightly more linear throttle response compared to BS4 units. This is due to the optimised fuelling and air-fuel mixture required to meet the stricter emission norms. The result is a smoother, more predictable power delivery.
· Maintenance Requirements
BS6 engines have additional components like DPF and SCR systems, which require periodic maintenance. This can result in slightly higher servicing costs compared to BS4 engines. It's essential to consider these potential expenses when comparing car insurance plans online.
When buying car insurance online, it's crucial to provide accurate information about your vehicle's engine type and specifications.
Impact on Car Insurance Premiums
The transition from BS4 to BS6 engines has had a ripple effect on car insurance premiums. Here are some key factors that influence how your engine type affects your car insurance plan:
· Vehicle Cost
As mentioned earlier, BS6 vehicles generally have a higher purchase price due to the advanced emission control technology. A higher vehicle value typically translates to a higher car insurance premium, as the insurer would have to pay out more in case of total loss or theft.
· Repair Costs
BS6 engines have more complex components compared to BS4 units. In the event of a breakdown or accident, repairing or replacing these advanced parts can be more expensive. Insurers factor in these potential higher repair costs when calculating car insurance premiums.
· Variant-Specific Pricing
Insurance companies often offer different premium rates for various models of the same car. A top-spec variant with a more powerful BS6 engine may attract a higher premium compared to a base variant with a smaller BS4 engine, even for the same car insurance policy.
When you compare car insurance plans online, it's essential to get quotes from multiple insurers and carefully review the coverage details. Look for car insurance policies that offer the right balance of protection and affordability for your specific BS4 or BS6 vehicle.
Summing Up
Understanding the differences between BS4 and BS6 engines is crucial when buying car insurance online. The advanced emission control technology in BS6 engines not only helps reduce environmental impact but also affects vehicle performance, maintenance costs and insurance premiums.
Ultimately, investing in a comprehensive car insurance policy is the best way to protect your vehicle and your finances in the event of an unfortunate incident. With the right insurance partner, such as Generali Central Insurance, you can enjoy complete peace of mind knowing that your policy offers robust coverage, reliable claim support, and financial protection when you need it most. Choosing Generali Central Insurance ensures that you’re well-prepared for whatever the road ahead may bring—driving with confidence, security, and trusted support every mile of the way.
FAQs
1. Are BS6 cars more expensive to insure than BS4 cars?
In general, BS6 cars may have slightly higher insurance premiums compared to their BS4 counterparts due to higher vehicle costs and potentially higher repair expenses.
2. Can I switch from a BS4 to a BS6 car without changing my insurance policy?
If you upgrade from a BS4 to a BS6 car, you will need to inform your insurance company and update your policy details. The insurer will reassess your risk profile based on the new vehicle specifications and adjust your premium accordingly.
3. Are there any insurance discounts available for BS6 vehicles?
Some insurers may offer discounts or incentives for BS6 vehicles as they are considered more environmentally friendly. However, this varies between insurance companies and is not a standard practice across the industry.
4. How can I find the best insurance deal for my BS6 car?
To find the best insurance deal for your BS6 car, compare car insurance plans online from multiple providers. Look for policies that offer the right level of coverage for your needs and budget.
5. Will my BS6 car have a higher resale value than a BS4 model?
Yes, BS6 cars are likely to have a higher resale value compared to BS4 models in the long run. As BS6 becomes the norm and older BS4 vehicles are phased out, the demand for BS6-compliant cars is expected to remain strong in the used car market.
