The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is actually an integral part of the globally acknowledged Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) system for the identification of motor vehicles. In India, the WMI registration is specifically controlled so that each vehicle manufacturer can be uniquely identified for traceability and compliance purposes with international standards.
Although Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) first came into being in the US in 1954, a standardized form of identification for vehicles was not made mandatory until 1981. Before 1981, every manufacturer had its own system. The VIN was designed in 1954, again at the insistence of the US government, by US auto manufacturers working with the Automobile Manufacturers Association to set standards for vehicle identification along with a set digit sequence and hidden chassis markings. Since 1954, American automobile manufacturers have used vehicle identification numbering to define and identify motor vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the United States mandated that all on-road vehicles be identified with a 17-character VIN format. This format, with the approval of the manufacturers, excluded letters O, I, and Q so that confusion with numerals 0, 1, and 9 is avoided.
World Manufacturers Identity (WMIs) are allocated to different countries and manufacturers in the USA by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Each ISO national member comprises designating an organization to act on behalf of the international agency responsible for maintaining WMI code.
In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), being the National Standards Body and an ISO member, coordinates WMI assignment. The assignment is done to vehicle manufacturers by BIS based on the assignment by the Society of Automotive Engineers Inc. in the USA, the international agency responsible for maintenance of WMI codes.
Manufacture’s identification uniquely assigns to a vehicle in that 17 characters are used, whereas letters I, O, and Q are excluded. The VIN is recognized worldwide as the individual identification of each vehicle in the automotive industry. It is sometimes referred to as a chassis number or a frame number. Considering ISO standards 3779 and 3780, the VIN system enables automotive manufacturers to identify each vehicle uniquely.
There are three main sections of VIN:
The ISO 3779(“Road Vehicles – VIN Content & Structure”) regulation describes what is to be included in the VIN and how to define it, so as to allow for its utilization across the world for identification of manufacturers of vehicles. The ISO 3780 (“Road Vehicles – WMI Code”) states how to identify the WMI code.
Step 1: Application Submission-A hard copy of the application and every requisite document are submitted to BIS by the applicant.
Step 2: Document Verification-The BIS officials will verify the documents received for their completeness.
Step 3: WMI Proposal and Database Entry-BIS will propose a WMI code in accordance with the established series and enter it into its database.
Step 4: SAE International Registration-The applicant must register with SAE International in the USA to obtain a WMI code. (Note: This clarifies whom to register). The assignment of the WMI code is done by SAE.
Step 5: SAE Confirmation Letter-SAE International sends a confirmation letter to the applicant stating the assigned WMI code as soon as the registration is successful.
Step 6: WMI code issuance-Finally, the issuance of a WMI code will be done to the applicant firm.
Diligence Certifications and their legal dedicated team will help you to obtaining WMI Registration. With our years of experience, in depth knowledge of Hallmarking Standards, and commitment to excellence.
The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code assigned to manufacturers of vehicles that form the first part of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It identifies not only the country of origin of the vehicle but also the manufacturer itself.
WMI codes are licensed to manufacturers in India by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), authorized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
The application procedure involves making a formal application to SIAM, furnishing thorough company particulars and proof of manufacturing capabilities, securing the verification and approval procedures by SIAM, and then the successful award of the unique WMI code.
Typical documents include a company registration certificate; GST certificate; details on the manufacturing facility; sample VIN structure; and authorization letter.
Normally, this may change, and the registration fee will be a combination of the application fee and service charges. It is highly recommended that the latest fees be checked with SIAM directly or with an expert.
Yes, Diligence Certification has a particular consultancy that provides assistance throughout the WMI registration process and confirms compliance with all relevant regulations.
Although there is no standard expiration for WMI codes, continued registration and updates of data as per regulatory norms are necessary.
The Diligence Certifications was created with the primary objective of providing compliance services in India and globally, by assisting in the implementation of business to ensure compliance requirements – all requirements in one place.
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