India

has formally challenged the US on higher auto tariffs by raising the matter with the

WTO

, signalling a hardening of the South Asian nation's stance on

trade talks

even as the two countries race to clinch an interim deal before July.

New Delhi

informed the WTO that the 25% US tariffs on imports of

passenger vehicles

and light trucks, along with certain

auto components

are "safeguard measures" - trade restrictions - and affect its exporters, according to a notification. India has sought "consultation" with Washington on the tariffs. The move on auto tariffs comes amid the US doubling levies on steel and aluminium and coincides with the visit of a US trade team in New Delhi to advance the discussions. Separately, India has threatened retaliatory duties on some US goods in response to Washington's duties on steel and aluminium.