India Launches Bharat NCAP to Elevate Vehicle Safety Standards

India has launched its own crash test rating assessment system called the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP). This program aims to enhance road safety for vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes and is the 5th country to have its own crash test program, following the USA, Japan, South Korea, and China. While car manufacturers can voluntarily subject their vehicles to these new norms, it is not mandatory.

The Bharat NCAP will evaluate vehicles based on their performance in various tests, providing ratings for both adult and child occupants. The assessment will encompass aspects like pedestrian-friendliness, structural safety, active or passive safety technology, and safety for occupants of all ages. The program has the authority to select vehicles from showrooms for testing, and its implementation is expected to foster a demand for safer cars and boost the export potential of Indian-manufactured vehicles.

This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to road safety improvement, aiming to cut road accidents and fatalities by 50% by 2024. The move is complemented by significant investments in road infrastructure, which not only enhances safety but also has a positive impact on the economy. Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has highlighted the role of quality roads in economic growth, aiming to create a safety-conscious car market in India and strengthen the country’s position in the global automotive industry.