Bharat NCAP To Be Launched Tomorrow

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road, Transport, and Highways, will be launching India’s new crash test rating assessment programme tomorrow. Called Bharat NCAP, it will make India the fifth country in the world to get its own testing programme.

Bharat NCAP: Crash Test To Be Voluntary

Under the new Bharat NCAP crash test programme, automakers can voluntarily get their vehicles tested as per AIS (Automotive Industry Standard) 197. Bharat NCAP is aimed at increasing the exportworthiness of Indian-made vehicles. The testing agency also has the liberty to pick up vehicles directly from showrooms.

Bharat NCAP: Similar To Global Standards

The government has made sure Bharat NCAP’s testing protocols align with global crash test protocols. This means the programme will give cars that are being tested a star rating between 1-5, with 5 being the highest. The vehicles will also be awarded separate star ratings for adult occupants and child occupants, based on their performance.

Parameters for the star rating will include multiple factors, including structural safety of the car, pedestrian-friendly design, provision of active and passive safety assist technologies, and the safety of adult and child occupants.

Bharat NCAP: Which Vehicles Are Eligible?

Vehicles that have a gross weight of less than 3.5 tonnes, are approved for carrying up to 8 passengers, and are either manufactured or imported into the country will be eligible for the new Bharat NCAP tests. Additionally, the programme will test both CNG and EVs in addition to ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles.

The new policy is going to benefit Indian automakers as they won’t have to ship their vehicles abroad which is a very expensive process.

Read Also: Upcoming Tata Nexon Facelift Clear Interior Image Revealed