About Bharat NCAP(New Car Assessment Programme):
- It is a significant step forward in the government’s commitment to improving road safety by raising the safety standards of motor vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes in India.
- The programme aims to provide a tool for car customers to make a comparative assessment of the crash safety of motor vehicles available in the market.
- Under this programme, car manufacturers can voluntarily offer their cars tested as per Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) 197.
- Based on the performance of the car in the tests, the car will be awarded star ratings for Adult Occupants (AOP) and Child Occupants (COP).
- To receive a 5-star rating, a vehicle needs at least 27 points in adult occupant protection and requires 41 points in child occupant protection.
- These protocols are in line with Global NCAP norms when it comes to crash testing.
- Three tests, including offset deformable barrier frontal impact test, side impact test, and pole side impact test -- would determine the crashworthiness of the vehicles.
- It would also mandate the installation of six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), three-point seatbelts for every passenger, improved emergency braking systems, etc.
- For Bharat NCAP, the frontal crash test will be conducted at a speed of 64km/h. On the other hand, the side and pole-side impact tests will be done at 50km/h and 29km/h
- These norms will also be applicable for testing and rating CNG and EVs based on their performance.
- Unlike Global NCAP, Bharat NCAP will give a unified rating for the vehicles, combining crash test results for adults and children alike.
