Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) is a transparency beacon in automotive safety. Introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, this star-rating system adds a new dimension to vehicle choices. This exploration delves into Bharat NCAP’s impact on the automotive industry, its connection to car insurance, and its crucial role in informed decision-making for safety. Understanding Bharat NCAP becomes critical in securing the well-being of drivers and passengers.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways introduces the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP), a voluntary star-rating system for crash-testing vehicles. Beginning October 1, 2023, this initiative evaluates and communicates vehicle safety through a one-to-five star rating.
Testing Criteria And Process:
Under the Bharat NCAP, nominated cars will undergo crash testing based on the Automotive Industry Standard 197. This program applies to passenger cars weighing up to 3,500 kg with no more than eight seats. The evaluation includes three critical criteria: adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, and safety assist technologies. Tests involve frontal-offset, pole-side impact, and side impact assessments.
Optional Participation And Testing Triggers:
While Bharat NCAP is optional for car makers, certain situations may trigger mandatory testing. For instance, if 30,000 units of a popular variant are sold, or if suggested by the Ministry for Public Safety Improvement, a model may undergo crash testing. 30 car models with undisclosed automaker identities have been nominated for testing.
Program Goals And Road Safety Impact:
The primary objective of Bharat NCAP is to encourage demand for safer vehicles by empowering buyers to make informed decisions. India, with only 1% of global vehicles, accounts for 10% of annual road fatalities. The initiative aims to address this alarming statistic, with a World Bank study estimating traffic accidents’ yearly cost to the Indian economy at 5-7% of GDP.
Evolution From Global NCAP Model:
Drawing inspiration from the Global NCAP, Bharat NCAP follows global testing procedures to enhance car safety standards. Since the initiation of independent crash tests in 2014, there has been a noticeable reduction in zero-star models in the Indian market. Car makers now strive for higher ratings, and safety features such as airbags and anti-lock brakes have become standard.
Challenges And Future Enhancements:
India needs to enhance its crash testing capabilities to effectively implement Bharat NCAP, potentially incorporating software systems linked to crash test dummies. Additionally, aligning with international standards and expanding testing parameters will be crucial. While Japan’s NCAP evaluates various safety aspects, Bharat NCAP could evolve to include similar considerations over time.
In-car safety, Bharat NCAP stands as a transformative force, shedding light on the robustness of vehicles and empowering consumers to prioritise safety. As we navigate this paradigm shift, the synergy between Bharat NCAP and car insurance becomes evident. The demand for comprehensive coverage is poised to escalate, making it imperative for insurers to adapt. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the motor insurance policy. *
This transition is facilitated by tools like the four-wheeler insurance premium calculator and dedicated apps such as the Bajaj Allianz Car Insurance App. You can utilise the four-wheeler insurance premium calculator to estimate the costs of premiums to be paid.
The amalgamation of safety assessments empowers drivers for a secure automotive future beyond crash testing.
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*Standard T&C Apply
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