Bharat NCAP: A New Standard For Vehicle Safety In India

India has initiated its first-ever car crash testing safety rating program named the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP). This program, launched by the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, allows automobile manufacturers to have their vehicles tested and receive star ratings based on crash test performance and safety parameters defined by the Automotive Industry Standard 197.

The Bharat NCAP will evaluate cars based on adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, and safety-assist technologies. Tests will include front-crash impact, side-crash impact, and pole-side impact, with ratings ranging from zero to five. The tests will be conducted at different speeds: 64 km/h for frontal-crash, 50 km/h for side-crash, and 29 km/h for pole-side impact.

Gadkari emphasised that the program aims to enhance the quality of the automotive industry in India and aligns its safety standards with global norms. He further noted that companies producing models with advanced technology and safety features will gain a competitive edge in the market.

The introduction of Bharat NCAP is expected to bolster India”s potential for car exports, as higher safety standards will allow Indian vehicles to better compete in the global market. The program also aims to foster the growth of a safety-conscious car market within India.

The program seeks to address the significant number of road fatalities in India, which currently stands at around 150,000 annually. By implementing comprehensive safety testing, India hopes to reduce these fatalities and enhance road safety.

Unlike the Global NCAP, which is voluntary and has faced criticism from certain Indian car manufacturers, the Bharat NCAP has gained traction due to its lower testing costs (Rs 60 lakh compared to Rs 2.5 crore) and its potential to align with Indian standards while encouraging the adoption of safety measures.

Major automobile manufacturers such as Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL), Hyundai Motor India, Kia India, and Tata Motors have shown support for the Bharat NCAP. MSIL, for instance, has committed to submitting at least three models for testing in the initial phase.

Experts predict that the Bharat NCAP will have a significant impact on the automotive sector, as consumers are becoming increasingly safety-conscious and will likely favour vehicles with higher safety ratings. While there might be short-term cost increases due to investments in safety features, the long-term benefits of improved safety are expected to outweigh these costs.

Gadkari also called for the development of in-house crash testing facilities by agencies like the Automotive Research Association of India and the National Automotive Test Tracks. This initiative aligns with Gadkari”s broader vision of improving both road engineering and automobile engineering to enhance passenger transport infrastructure in India.

Overall, the launch of the Bharat NCAP represents a significant step toward improving road safety, fostering a safety-focused car market, and enhancing India”s standing in the global automotive industry.