The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a crucial component of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) system, which is used globally to identify motor vehicles. In India, the process of WMI registration is managed to ensure that each vehicle manufacturer is uniquely identified, facilitating traceability and compliance with international standards.
The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code used in the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) system to identify vehicle manufacturers globally. Comprising the first three characters of the 17-character VIN, the WMI provides crucial information about the vehicle's manufacturer and country of origin. This standardized code ensures consistency and traceability in the automotive industry, facilitating the identification and tracking of vehicles across international borders. The WMI is assigned by international agencies and managed by national bodies, such as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in India.
Understanding VIN
Globally, automotive manufacturers utilize a numbering system called the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to uniquely identify a vehicle. The VIN comprises 17 characters that uniquely identify the vehicle as provided in ISO 3779 and ISO 4030. The VIN is divided into three sections:
World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI): first 3 characters uniquely identify the manufacturer.
Vehicle Descriptor Section: next 6 characters describe the vehicle type, model, and body style.
Vehicle Indicator Section: last 8 characters provide specific information about the vehicle, such as the year of manufacture and serial number.
The WMI code consists of three characters:
First Character: the region of manufacture (e.g., 'M' for Asia).
Second Character: the country within the region (e.g., 'A' for India).
Third Character: the specific manufacturer.
Importance of WMI Registration
WMI registration is vital for several reasons, ensuring the smooth functioning and regulation of the global automotive industry.
Traceability:With a unique WMI, vehicles can be tracked globally, facilitating the management of recalls, safety standards, and regulatory compliance. This traceability is essential for monitoring vehicle history, ownership, and modifications.
Compliance:for a WMI helps manufacturers adhere to international automotive standards, such as those set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Compliance with these standards is crucial for manufacturers to operate in the global market.
Data Integrity:registration supports the accurate and consistent management of vehicle data. It ensures that information regarding the manufacturer, vehicle specifications, and history is reliable and easily accessible.
Consumer Protection:ensuring vehicles are traceable and compliant with standards, WMI registration helps protect consumers from fraud and unsafe vehicles. It provides transparency and accountability in the automotive industry.
Market Access:Manufacturers with registered WMIs can access international markets more easily. Many countries require vehicles to have a valid WMI as part of their import regulations, making registration essential for global trade.
WMI Registration Process in India
Step 1: Application Submission
Manufacturers must submit an application to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). The application must include detailed information about the company, including Legal name, Address, Nature of the business, Contact details
Step 2: Documentation
The application must be accompanied by supporting documents such as Certificate of Incorporation, Business licenses, Proof of manufacturing facilities
Step 3: Review and Verification
SIAM reviews the application and verifies the provided information. This may involve site visits and interviews to ensure compliance with the required standards.
Step 4: Allocation of WMI
Once the application is approved, SIAM allocates a unique WMI code to the manufacturer. This code is then registered with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Step 5: Integration into VIN
Manufacturers must integrate the assigned WMI into their vehicle VINs. This ensures that all vehicles produced are identifiable globally.
Documents Required for WMI Registration in India
When applying for WMI registration in India, manufacturers must provide a comprehensive set of documents to ensure their application is complete and complies with regulatory standards. Below is a detailed list of the required documents:
Documentation needed for WMI Registration
Application Form
GST copy
Pan copy
MSME
Aadhar card of the signing person
MoA and AoA
WMI Registration Fees
The fee structure provided below is indicative and may vary based on the specific product and BIS policies. It is advisable to check the latest fee structure on the BIS official website or contact EVTL India for complete clarification.
No.
Type of Fees/Charges
Amount
1
Demand Draft
INR 5900/-
Technical Aspects of WMI Registration
Obtaining ISI Mark certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) offers numerous benefits for manufacturers, ensuring compliance with Indian standards and enhancing product credibility in the market. Here are some key benefits:
Compliance with ISO 3780: WMI registration process in India complies with the ISO 3780 standard, which specifies the structure and assignment of WMIs. This standard ensures that the codes are globally unique and consistent.
Database Management: of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) maintains a database of all registered WMIs, which is regularly updated and shared with international automotive organizations. This database helps in maintaining the integrity and accuracy of vehicle identification data.
Role of BIS: of Indian Standards (BIS), being the National Standards Body of India and a member of the International Organization for Standardization, acts as the WMI coordinator in India. BIS issues the WMI code to vehicle manufacturers in India after these are assigned by the Society of Automotive Engineers Inc., USA, the international agency responsible for the maintenance of the WMI codes
Regular Audits: with registered WMIs are subject to regular audits to ensure ongoing compliance with the standards. Non-compliance can result in the revocation of the WMI.
Conclusion:
WMI registration in India is a critical process that ensures vehicle manufacturers are uniquely identified, facilitating traceability and compliance with international standards. Managed by SIAM and coordinated by BIS, the process involves application submission, documentation, review, and integration into VINs, all while adhering to ISO 3780 standards. This meticulous process helps maintain the integrity of vehicle data and supports the global automotive industry's need for standardized identification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A WMI is a unique code assigned to vehicle manufacturers worldwide, serving as the first three characters in the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to identify the manufacturer and country of origin.
WMI registration ensures that each vehicle produced can be uniquely identified, which is essential for regulatory compliance, tracking, recalls, and vehicle history reporting.
The WMI is assigned by the relevant national or regional organization. In North America, it's the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In other regions, it may be assigned by organizations like the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
Manufacturers can apply for a WMI by submitting an application to the appropriate national or regional organization, providing necessary details about the manufacturing entity and the types of vehicles produced.
The application typically requires the manufacturer's name, address, contact details, a description of the manufacturing facility, and details about the types of vehicles produced.
The registration process duration can vary, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months from the time of application to the issuance of the WMI.
Yes, there is usually a fee associated with the application for a WMI, which varies depending on the region and the registering authority.
The registration process duration can vary, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months from the time of application to the issuance of the WMI.
Yes, there is usually a fee associated with the application for a WMI, which varies depending on the region and the registering authority.
The registration process duration can vary, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months from the time of application to the issuance of the WMI.
