If this is correct, it amounts to supreme stupidity and short-sightedness on behalf of the lawmakers. Lets evaluate the process they have laid out to get a modified car approved: How to get modifications approved
> First, get the modification plans approved by the original car maker How? Does the rule say who/what dept in the original car maker's office is qualified (or has the requisite powers as per statute) to approve a proposed modification?
> Modify the car according to the approved plan When modifying a building structure, it is compulsory to submit a plan made by a qualified architect. In a car's case, what compulsory degree is required for the modifier before he is allowed to make a plan?
> Get the modified car approved by the original car maker Again, does the rule say who/what dept in the original car maker's office is qualified (or has the requisite powers as per statute) to approve a modification? Secondly, what are the remediations in case deviation from a plan is found?
> If approved, the owner has to get the car certified at one of three government-approved certifying agencies Homologation in India is an exhaustive process where the car is put through extensive testing and pounding around tracks. This is why manufacturers (when homologating a particular model) have to write off the particular car which is being used for homologation. What in an individual's case? Would I like to take back my precious baby after it has been ripped, stripped and tested by government agencies? Would you?
> Once cleared by them, an RTO certificate will enable the owner to drive around town without being pulled up Any idea how much time the process will take, or how much greasing of palms is required? The only way I can see this idea work is if modifiers decide to have 4-5 fixed designs in their portfolio and patent them. In that case, one can only go to "Mr.X" modifier if he wants "Y" model, as Y is patented by X. The benefit to Mr X is that he can design a prototype and homologate it beforehand, so that the design already comes with an RTO clearance. But if that becomes the case, the modifier ceases to be anything more than another small scale automaker? What of individuality and customization? |