Bharat NCAP Crash Tests to Commence on December 15: Carmakers Line Up for First Batch
In a significant move for automotive safety in India, the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP) is set to begin its crash tests on December 15, 2023. This initiative, modeled after the Global NCAP, marks a milestone in India’s commitment to enhancing vehicle safety standards.
Launched in August this year and operational since October 1, 2023, Bharat NCAP has seen some festive season-induced delays but is now on track to assess the safety of passenger vehicles. A government official disclosed to The Economic Times that the testing will kick off post-Diwali, underscoring the industry’s high anticipation for the program.
What Bharat NCAP Aims to Achieve
Bharat NCAP’s goal is to equip consumers with the knowledge to make safer vehicle choices and to foster a market where safety features are a priority. The program will evaluate vehicles based on three key criteria:
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP)
- Child Occupant Protection (COP)
- Safety Assist Technologies (SAT)
Cars will be awarded a star rating ranging from zero to five, with five stars denoting the highest level of safety.
Carmakers Participating in the First Round
The inaugural batch of crash tests will feature prominent Indian manufacturers such as Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Mahindra & Mahindra, among others. Tata Motors notably leads the charge, being the first to submit nominations for the tests.
- Tata Motors is anticipated to present models including the facelifted Nexon SUV.
- Maruti Suzuki may potentially nominate its latest offering, the Jimny.
- Hyundai is expected to nominate the Exter SUV, touted as one of its safest cars in India.
The Global Context
While Indian and Asian carmakers are showing enthusiasm, European manufacturers like Renault, Skoda, and Volkswagen are reportedly still deliberating their participation. However, certain Skoda Auto Volkswagen India models have already achieved a 5-star rating in the Global NCAP, which may influence their decision regarding Bharat NCAP.
The Testing Process
Automakers must submit an application on Form 70-A for the cars to be tested, adhering to the Automotive Indian Standard (AIS) star system. The vehicles will be assessed for structural safety and compliance with safety norms.
ALSO READ | Hyundai Verna receives Global NCAP 5-Star rating: Which other Indian cars have 5-Star rating?
Government and Industry Response
Government officials have expressed satisfaction with the industry’s response to the new safety rating program. Even though the ratings are voluntary, the pursuit of a five-star Bharat NCAP rating has become a new benchmark for the industry.
With the Bharat NCAP crash tests set to start soon, the Indian automobile market is poised for a significant leap in safety standards. Consumers can look forward to a new era of transparency in vehicle safety, and carmakers have a fresh impetus to prioritize safety in their design and manufacturing processes.
