New Delhi :
Today marks a significant milestone for the automotive industry in India as Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari unveils the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
This pioneering initiative, scheduled for launch on August 22, 2023, introduces a homegrown car crash test program named Bharat NCAP,
signifying India’s pursuit of self-reliance in vehicle safety evaluations.
With this launch, vehicle safety assessment will take place domestically, eliminating the need to rely on global rating agencies for safety evaluations and star ratings.
Bharat NCAP Rating System
The Bharat NCAP program marks India’s inaugural foray into comprehensive vehicle crash testing and safety assessment. Under this program, vehicles manufactured within the country will undergo rigorous crash tests, forming the basis for safety ratings.
The program is set to be inaugurated by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and will encompass vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes.
Understanding the Rating System
The Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) 197 will serve as the foundation for vehicle testing within India. Vehicles will be evaluated based on their performance in crash tests, with a focus on assessing the safety of adult passengers and child occupants.
The resulting crash test ratings will be denoted on a 0-5 star scale, reflecting the level of safety each vehicle offers.
This system parallels the international safety rating system employed by Global NCAP, enhancing transparency and consistency in assessing vehicle safety.
Role of ARAI in Vehicle Safety
The responsibility of rating car crashes under the Bharat NCAP program has been entrusted to the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
Equipped with a state-of-the-art laboratory in Chakan, Pune, featuring cutting-edge technology, ARAI is poised to conduct comprehensive crash tests adhering to international standards.
With over 800 pre-NCAP crash tests to their credit, ARAI’s capabilities are well-established, ensuring the implementation of rigorous testing procedures.
India’s Automotive Market
The introduction of Bharat NCAP signifies India’s leap towards vehicle safety autonomy.
By establishing a dedicated domestic program for crash testing and safety rating, the nation strengthens its commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens on the road.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Bharat NCAP program embodies India’s resolve to cultivate a safer driving environment through innovation and thorough evaluation.
