India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market, By Application (Automotive, Industrial), By Technology (Diesel Particulate Filters, Selective Catalytic Reduction, Exhaust Gas Recirculation, Oxidation Catalysts), By Fuel Type (Diesel Vehicles, Petrol Vehicles, Electric & Hybrid Vehicles) By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2021-2031F

Market Overview

India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market was valued at USD 2.13 Billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 2.98 Billion by 2031 with a CAGR of 5.57% during the forecast period. 

A Retrofit Emission Control Device refers to an after-market system or technology designed to reduce the harmful emissions of an existing vehicle, engine, or industrial equipment that was not originally equipped with such a system. These devices are typically added to older vehicles or machinery to help them meet current environmental standards or regulations. Retrofit emission control devices are commonly used to mitigate pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrocarbons (HC), which can have harmful effects on air quality and human health.

Examples of retrofit emission control technologies include diesel particulate filters (DPFs), selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems, and oxidation catalysts. These systems work by capturing and filtering out pollutants from exhaust gases, or by chemically altering the emissions to convert them into less harmful substances.

Retrofitting is particularly important in industries where older vehicles or equipment are still in use but need to comply with stricter emission regulations. It provides a cost-effective alternative to replacing entire fleets or machinery, helping businesses reduce their environmental impact while ensuring compliance with air quality standards.

Key Market Drivers

Stringent Emission Norms

India’s increasing focus on environmental sustainability has led to the implementation of stringent emission regulations, which is one of the primary drivers of the retrofit emission control device market. The government has put forward measures to improve air quality by controlling emissions from vehicles, industrial sectors, and construction machinery, among others. As a result, India has adopted increasingly strict standards for permissible pollutant levels in recent years, aligning with global emission standards such as Euro IV, Euro V, and Euro VI norms.

For instance, the Indian government introduced the Bharat Stage (BS) emission standards, which regulate the output of air pollutants from internal combustion engines. The shift from BS-IV to BS-VI, which came into effect in 2020, further tightened emission norms. These regulations have pushed older vehicles and equipment that do not comply with the latest standards to seek alternatives to meet compliance without incurring the costs of a complete overhaul or replacement. Retrofit emission control devices, including diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems, are effective solutions for older vehicles and machinery to meet the latest emission standards.

The growing concerns over rising air pollution in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata have forced authorities to adopt aggressive strategies to mitigate emissions from transport vehicles, leading to the implementation of initiatives such as the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) and the introduction of the FAST (Fuel Efficient and Emission Reduction Technologies) program. These policies indirectly promote the retrofit market by encouraging vehicle owners, fleet operators, and industries to install emission control devices to remain compliant with legal requirements.

The tightening of emission regulations has thus created a thriving demand for retrofit emission control devices as a more economical and timely alternative to vehicle replacement. This regulatory pressure is anticipated to drive the retrofit emission control device market in India in the coming years. BS-VI, which came into effect in 2020, represents the most stringent emission norms for vehicular emissions in India, aligning with Euro VI standards.

Rising Air Pollution Levels and Public Health Concerns

India’s rapidly urbanizing population and booming industrialization have led to an alarming increase in air pollution levels, particularly in metropolitan regions. With the country facing significant environmental health challenges, the government, environmental organizations, and the public have all raised awareness about the dire consequences of poor air quality. The rising levels of particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are causing severe health issues like respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even premature deaths.

A primary concern is the disproportionate amount of pollution generated by the transportation sector, which remains one of the largest contributors to harmful emissions. Older vehicles, including buses, trucks, and private cars, emit high levels of pollutants due to outdated engine technologies and the absence of advanced emission control systems. Industrial machinery and equipment also significantly contribute to pollution, especially in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and mining.

As air pollution continues to have detrimental effects on public health, there has been a significant push to implement cleaner technologies across various sectors. The retrofit emission control device market is a key player in this fight, as it provides a cost-effective solution for vehicles and industrial equipment to cut down their emission levels and contribute to cleaner air.

The awareness of pollution’s health risks among the public is another driving factor. Citizens are increasingly demanding clean air, especially in cities where air quality has worsened. The introduction of retrofit devices, such as diesel particulate filters and oxidation catalysts, helps curb harmful emissions, thus reducing exposure to toxic air pollutants.

As pollution-related health costs rise, there is a growing realization that mitigating pollution must be a priority, which boosts the adoption of emission control technologies. Thus, rising air pollution levels and public health concerns are driving the demand for retrofit emission control devices in India. India has some of the most polluted cities globally. According to the World Air Quality Report 2020, 22 out of the 30 most polluted cities in the world were in India, with Delhi ranking as the most polluted.

Cost-Effectiveness and Operational Efficiency

The cost of retrofitting an existing vehicle or industrial machinery with emission control devices is often far less than the cost of replacing the equipment entirely. This financial consideration makes retrofitting an attractive solution, especially for fleet owners and businesses that are already dealing with financial pressures due to rising operational costs. Retrofit emission control devices allow companies to upgrade their equipment to meet current emission standards without having to bear the high cost of purchasing new machines.

For fleet operators, particularly those in the commercial transportation and logistics sectors, upgrading their existing fleet with retrofit emission control devices is much more economical than replacing old trucks or buses. Retrofitting ensures that vehicles comply with the latest emission norms while maintaining their operational life and reducing the risk of being penalized for non-compliance. These devices typically offer a relatively low initial investment, and many also come with the added benefit of improving fuel efficiency, which further reduces the overall operational costs of the vehicle.

Similarly, industries using heavy machinery or equipment can benefit from retrofit solutions that meet emissions requirements while extending the useful life of their existing assets. In the construction and mining industries, where large machines are essential for day-to-day operations, retrofitting offers a more affordable solution to environmental compliance than investing in new, expensive machinery.

In addition to cost savings, retrofitting can also lead to operational efficiency gains. Many emission control devices, such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems, can also improve engine performance by optimizing combustion processes, reducing fuel consumption, and increasing engine lifespan. This makes retrofitting an attractive choice for business owners who are seeking to balance environmental compliance with operational efficiency. Retrofitting existing vehicles or equipment with emission control devices is significantly cheaper than purchasing new, BS-VI-compliant vehicles. The cost of retrofitting can range from USD 356.34 to USD 2375.60 per vehicle depending on the type of device (e.g., DPF, SCR, EGR systems), whereas buying a new vehicle can cost several more.

Technological Advancements and Increased Availability of Retrofit Solutions

The advancement of emission control technologies has played a crucial role in boosting the retrofit emission control device market. Over the years, manufacturers have developed more efficient, reliable, and affordable retrofit solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of older vehicles and industrial equipment. These technological innovations have expanded the range of options available to vehicle owners and industries, making it easier for them to upgrade their systems.

For instance, the development of advanced particulate filters, catalysts, and other emission-reducing technologies has made it possible to retrofit even older engines with state-of-the-art emission control systems. New technologies are designed to provide better pollutant reduction while also being more durable, efficient, and easier to install. Retrofit solutions that can handle higher levels of pollution, are more resistant to wear, and require less maintenance are increasingly available on the market, making them a more attractive proposition for fleet operators and industries.

Another key technological advancement is the improvement in the integration of emission control devices with existing engine systems. Manufacturers have worked on developing universal retrofit solutions that can be easily installed on a wide range of engine types, making it more feasible for companies with diverse fleets or machinery to adopt emission control technologies. This has led to increased availability and accessibility of retrofit solutions, thereby driving market growth. Furthermore, the rise of digital technologies such as sensors and monitoring systems has enabled better performance tracking of emission control devices. These systems help vehicle owners and industrial operators track the efficiency of their retrofit devices in real-time, ensuring that they continue to meet regulatory requirements and operate at optimal levels. Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems are becoming more efficient in reducing emissions. The development of advanced SCR systems, which reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx), and improved DPFs that capture particulate matter, are gaining traction in the Indian market

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Key Market Challenges

High Initial Installation Costs and Financial Constraints

One of the primary challenges faced by the retrofit emission control device market in India is the relatively high initial installation costs associated with these devices. While retrofitting is often seen as a cost-effective alternative to replacing old vehicles or equipment, the upfront expense of purchasing and installing retrofit emission control devices can be a significant financial burden for many vehicle owners and businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The installation of devices such as diesel particulate filters (DPFs), selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems, or exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems requires a combination of technology, skilled labor, and specialized components. These factors collectively contribute to the high costs of retrofitting. For example, installing an SCR system in older diesel vehicles requires additional components like urea tanks and specialized sensors, which further increase the installation expenses. The upfront cost can be particularly challenging for small fleet operators, who might already be grappling with tight budgets and low-profit margins.

For many vehicle owners and fleet managers, especially those with older, high-mileage fleets, the cost of retrofitting may appear prohibitive. This financial challenge is compounded by the fact that, in many cases, these operators are already struggling with rising fuel prices, maintenance costs, and other operational expenses. As a result, many fleet owners and industrial businesses may delay or forgo the adoption of retrofit solutions, despite the potential long-term environmental and operational benefits. Instead, they may choose to continue operating older, non-compliant vehicles, risking penalties for non-compliance with emission standards. Additionally, while retrofitting can lead to cost savings in the long run through improved fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance costs, these benefits are not always immediately realized. This delayed return on investment (ROI) can deter businesses from making the initial financial commitment. Without financial incentives or subsidies from the government, many fleet operators and industries may choose to avoid retrofitting and instead focus on cheaper, less effective alternatives.

To overcome this challenge, the Indian government could introduce financial incentives, tax breaks, or subsidies to help offset the initial installation costs for businesses. Public-private partnerships could also help reduce the financial burden, encouraging wider adoption of emission control technologies.

Limited Awareness and Knowledge of Retrofit Solutions

Another significant challenge in the India retrofit emission control device market is the limited awareness and understanding of retrofit solutions among vehicle owners, fleet operators, and industrial businesses. Despite the increasing importance of emission control and the benefits of retrofitting, many potential adopters are either unaware of the available technologies or lack sufficient knowledge about how these devices work, their effectiveness, and their cost-benefit ratio.

In India, a large portion of the vehicle fleet is owned by individual operators or small businesses, many of whom may not have the technical expertise or resources to fully understand the long-term advantages of retrofitting with emission control devices. Often, these operators may only be aware of the immediate costs and may not see the value in investing in retrofit technologies, especially when their vehicles or equipment are still functional and performing adequately without meeting the latest emission standards. As a result, they may resist upgrading their vehicles with emission control systems, either due to a lack of understanding of the regulatory requirements or because they view the process as unnecessary. Additionally, the retrofit emission control device market in India is still relatively nascent compared to other global markets, and there is a lack of robust information dissemination platforms that effectively educate vehicle owners and businesses about the advantages of retrofitting. Although some manufacturers and environmental organizations have made efforts to raise awareness, many smaller vehicle owners and fleet operators are not exposed to this information in a way that drives meaningful action. This lack of awareness further contributes to low adoption rates.

Another factor exacerbating this challenge is the fragmentation of the market. There are many different types of retrofit solutions available, ranging from basic filters to more complex systems like SCR or EGR. Without proper guidance, fleet operators may find it difficult to choose the right solution that meets their specific needs or vehicle requirements. The absence of standardization in the retrofit emission control device industry can also lead to confusion and hesitation in adopting the technology.

To address this challenge, a concerted effort is needed from both the public and private sectors to provide clear, accessible, and accurate information about retrofit solutions. Government agencies, manufacturers, and industry associations could collaborate on awareness campaigns, training programs, and informational seminars to educate stakeholders about the benefits of retrofitting, the technologies involved, and the long-term advantages of reducing emissions. By fostering greater awareness and understanding, the market for retrofit emission control devices could expand significantly in India.

Key Market Trends

Increased Adoption of Advanced Emission Control Technologies

One of the key trends shaping the India retrofit emission control device market is the growing adoption of advanced emission control technologies. As the Indian government continues to tighten environmental regulations, particularly with the transition from Bharat Stage IV (BS-IV) to Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission standards, there is an increasing demand for more sophisticated retrofit solutions. These technologies include Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems.

SCR technology, which reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by injecting a urea-based solution into the exhaust stream, is gaining popularity due to its effectiveness in meeting stringent emission standards. Similarly, DPFs, which capture particulate matter and prevent its release into the atmosphere, are becoming a common retrofit option for diesel vehicles. EGR systems, which recirculate a portion of the engine's exhaust gas back into the combustion chamber, are also being increasingly used to reduce NOx emissions.

These advanced technologies are not only more effective in reducing emissions but also improve fuel efficiency and overall engine performance. As these technologies become more affordable and efficient, their adoption is expected to continue growing across various sectors, including transportation, manufacturing, and mining. This trend reflects a broader shift toward cleaner, more sustainable industrial practices in India. Additionally, technological advancements have led to the development of more compact and versatile emission control devices. Manufacturers are focusing on designing retrofit solutions that are easier to install and compatible with a broader range of vehicles and engines, expanding their appeal to smaller fleet operators and industrial businesses. As the technology matures and becomes more widely accessible, the market for advanced retrofit emission control devices is likely to expand significantly.

Government Incentives and Regulatory Support

Another prominent trend in the India retrofit emission control device market is the growing role of government incentives and regulatory support. The Indian government has recognized the importance of reducing air pollution and improving environmental standards, which has led to the implementation of various policies and programs that promote the adoption of emission control technologies.

One of the key initiatives is the introduction of stricter emission standards under the Bharat Stage (BS) norms. The transition to BS-VI emission standards in 2020 marked a significant step toward reducing harmful emissions from vehicles, but it also placed pressure on older vehicles to comply with the new requirements. In response, the government has incentivized the adoption of retrofit solutions to help existing vehicles meet these stringent standards. By encouraging the retrofitting of older vehicles rather than mandating their replacement, the government has made it easier for vehicle owners to stay compliant with the new regulations without incurring the high costs of purchasing new vehicles.

Several state governments have also introduced regional schemes that offer financial incentives, subsidies, or tax breaks to encourage fleet operators to retrofit their vehicles with emission control devices. For example, programs such as the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) and initiatives in major cities like Delhi provide direct financial support to vehicle owners who invest in retrofitting technologies. These incentives make the retrofit process more affordable, particularly for small businesses and fleet operators, who may otherwise struggle with the costs of upgrading their fleets.

The government is expected to increase its focus on emission reduction targets in response to growing concerns about air pollution. As stricter regulations continue to roll out, the role of government incentives and regulatory support will become even more critical in driving the adoption of retrofit emission control devices in India.

Segmental Insights

Application Insights

The Automotive held the largest market share in 2025. The automotive sector dominates the India Retrofit Emission Control Device market due to a combination of regulatory, environmental, and operational factors that make it a primary focus for emission control interventions. One of the main reasons is the vast population of aging diesel vehicles in India—especially commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses, and public transport fleets—that significantly contribute to urban air pollution. These older vehicles often lack modern emission control technologies, making them key targets for retrofitting to meet the more stringent Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) norms introduced in 2020.

The automotive sector is also subject to more rigorous regulatory scrutiny compared to many industrial applications. The government, under programs such as the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and various state-level pollution control mandates, has made it mandatory in several regions to retrofit diesel vehicles with emission control devices like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. In densely populated and pollution-prone cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, older vehicles are not allowed to operate unless retrofitted, further pushing demand in the automotive segment. Moreover, fleet operators, including public transport agencies and logistics providers, prefer retrofitting as a cost-effective alternative to fleet replacement. For them, retrofitting offers a practical solution to extend vehicle lifespan while achieving compliance with emission norms. Public funding, subsidies, and pilot programs targeting vehicular pollution also support adoption in this sector.

In contrast, while industrial applications like construction, mining, and manufacturing also contribute to emissions, these sectors face fewer direct enforcement actions and public visibility. As a result, retrofitting in the industrial segment has not progressed as rapidly.

Technology Insights

The Diesel Particulate Filters held the largest market share in 2025.  Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) dominate the India Retrofit Emission Control Device market due to their effectiveness, regulatory alignment, and suitability for the country’s vehicle profile. DPFs are designed to capture and remove particulate matter (PM) or soot from diesel engine exhaust, which is one of the major pollutants contributing to poor air quality in Indian cities.

India has a large base of diesel-powered vehicles, particularly in the commercial transportation sector—including trucks, buses, and public transport fleets—that are significant sources of PM emissions. With the implementation of Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission norms, which mandate a substantial reduction in PM emissions, DPFs have emerged as the most practical and compliant solution for retrofitting older diesel vehicles that lack integrated particulate control technologies.

Another factor driving DPF dominance is government policy. Regulatory authorities and pollution control boards have identified particulate matter as a key pollutant affecting public health, especially in urban and industrial zones. Retrofitting diesel vehicles with DPFs has become a recommended or even mandatory practice in several regions, particularly for public transport systems and heavy-duty fleets operating in pollution hotspots like Delhi-NCR. Moreover, DPF technology has matured globally, offering proven efficiency and reliability. This makes it a favored choice among fleet operators seeking cost-effective solutions to meet emission standards without replacing their vehicles entirely. DPFs are also relatively easy to integrate into existing exhaust systems and are supported by a growing network of service providers in India.

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Regional Insights

North India held the largest market share in 2025. North India holds a dominant position in the India Retrofit Emission Control Device market due to a combination of environmental, regulatory, and demographic factors. One of the primary reasons is the severe air pollution levels experienced across major North Indian cities, particularly Delhi, Ghaziabad, Kanpur, and Lucknow. The National Capital Region (NCR), in particular, has consistently ranked among the world’s most polluted urban areas, prompting urgent intervention by both central and state governments to control emissions from vehicles and industrial sources.

To combat the deteriorating air quality, regulatory authorities in North India have implemented stringent emission control measures. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and state pollution control boards have enforced the mandatory retrofitting of emission control devices in older commercial vehicles and diesel generator sets. For example, Delhi was one of the first regions in India to mandate the installation of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) and Retrofit Emission Control Devices (RECDs) in public transport and construction machinery. This regulatory push has created significant demand for retrofit solutions in the region.

North India is home to a large population and high vehicle density, particularly in urban centers, leading to increased emissions and a greater need for retrofitting technologies. The dominance of older diesel-powered fleets in this region further drives demand, as retrofitting offers a cost-effective way to comply with updated Bharat Stage (BS-VI) norms without replacing existing vehicles. Additionally, awareness campaigns and proactive involvement from local governments and environmental organizations have heightened public and institutional consciousness about the importance of emission control. As a result, the automotive sector in North India, especially commercial fleet operators, has shown higher adoption rates of retrofit technologies compared to other regions.

Recent Developments

• In October 2024, Cepsa Química has introduced NextLab-R Low Carbon, the first Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) product to achieve Beyond Zero emissions from cradle to gate. This innovative solution marks a significant milestone in sustainability, as it not only reduces carbon emissions during production but also offsets more CO₂ than it emits. Cepsa's groundbreaking effort supports the company’s commitment to a circular economy and decarbonization, offering an eco-friendly option for industries reliant on LAB products.
• In August 2024, Cedara has launched a new Out-of-Home (OOH) measurement tool aimed at enhancing industry emissions transparency. This innovative tool provides businesses with accurate data on their carbon footprint in outdoor advertising, helping companies track and reduce emissions associated with OOH campaigns. By offering greater visibility into the environmental impact of advertising strategies, Cedara’s tool supports sustainability efforts and helps companies meet their decarbonization goals while promoting eco-friendly advertising practices.

Key Market Players

• Inventive Gas Equipment Pvt. Ltd.
• Eoenergy
• Kirloskar
• Platino
• Cummins India Limited
• Ekta Fueltech Private Limited
• Dekonix India
• VASTHI Instruments

Report Scope:

In this report, the India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market, By Application:

o   Automotive

o   Industrial

• India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market, By Technology:

o   Diesel Particulate Filters

o   Selective Catalytic Reduction

o   Exhaust Gas Recirculation

o   Oxidation Catalysts  

• India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market, By Fuel Type:

o   Diesel Vehicles

o   Petrol Vehicles

o   Electric & Hybrid Vehicles

• India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market, By Region:

o   South India

o   North India

o   West India

o   East India   

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market.

Available Customizations:

India Retrofit Emission Control Device Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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