Introduction
The anticipation is high as the Government of India’s Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) is set to unveil the results of its first round of crash testing. This article delves into the details of this crucial program, highlighting the significance of these tests in helping buyers make informed decisions about their vehicle purchases.
Delayed but Not Deterred
The Bharat NCAP tests were initially slated to commence on October 15th, but due to the festive season, the testing period was pushed back to December 15th. This delay, though inconvenient, showcases the commitment to thorough evaluations, ensuring the highest standards of car safety.
The Testing Process Unveiled
1. Program Manager: CIRT Pune
The Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT) Pune manages the car assessment plan, playing a pivotal role in the formal announcement of star ratings ranging from 1 to 5.
2. Testing Diversity
Leading automotive manufacturers like Hyundai, Kia, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra, and Toyota have eagerly submitted their vehicles for the first round of crash tests. Notably, Bharat NCAP is a voluntary program that assesses the base variant of each car.
3. Inclusive Testing
Bharat NCAP conducts Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and Child Occupant Protection (COP) tests on vehicles weighing up to 3,500kg. Unlike Global NCAP, Bharat NCAP provides a unified safety rating, covering aspects of both AOP and COP.
4. Rigorous Evaluation
The testing agencies, namely the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), randomly select vehicles from authorized dealerships. The guidelines stipulate tests such as the frontal impact test at 64kph, side impact test at 50kph, and pole side-impact test at 29kph.
Results Awaited: What to Expect
While testing agencies have already submitted their evaluations, the results will be formally announced by senior government officials, potentially at a mega event. The delay in the ratings appearing on the BNCAP website is due to ongoing discussions regarding the announcement plan.
Voices from the Government
Mahmood Ahmed, additional secretary of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, assures that the BNCAP program is on track. There is an eagerness to share the results as soon as possible, aiming for either this week or before the end of the year. The potential event could feature Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Bharat NCAP officials making the ratings public.
Conclusion
The Bharat NCAP crash test results mark a pivotal moment in ensuring vehicle safety standards in India. Buyers can now look forward to a comprehensive safety rating system that covers diverse vehicle types, including internal combustion engine vehicles, CNG, and electric cars. As the results unfold, it is evident that this initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to enhancing road safety.
FAQs
- How does Bharat NCAP differ from Global NCAP? Bharat NCAP provides a unified safety rating covering both Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and Child Occupant Protection (COP), unlike Global NCAP, which gives separate ratings.
- Why were the tests delayed to December? The tests were postponed due to the festive season, reflecting a commitment to conducting thorough evaluations.
- Which manufacturers participated in the first round of Bharat NCAP tests? Prominent manufacturers like Hyundai, Kia, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra, and Toyota submitted their models for the initial crash tests.
- What is the cost of a Bharat NCAP test? A Bharat NCAP test is estimated to cost Rs 60 lakh, while an overseas test is approximately Rs 2.50 crore.
- How are vehicles selected for testing? Vehicles are chosen at random by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) from authorized dealerships.
