NEW DELHI
The Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP) launched on 22 August 2023 and set to be implemented from 1 October, 2023, has received a rousing welcome by the auto industry and sector analysts as a localised, cost-effective testing system, potentially boosting the appeal to Indian OEMs to get the vehicle tested. The initiative will also bolster the auto component industry’s value chain as well as stimulate the production of cutting-edge components, encourage innovation and create global excellence, in the opinion of component makers.
The Bharat NCAP which makes India the fifth country globally to introduce its own car crash test rating system, aims to enhance car safety standards in India, focusing on vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes and aligns with the government’s vision to make the country a global automobile hub. “We welcome the BNCAP safety initiative by Government and believe this effort will raise safety standards, empower consumers with vital information, and make Indian roads safer for al,” assures Hyundai Motor India’s Unsoo Kim, MD & CEO, highlighting Hyundai Motor’s commitment to delivering the highest safety standards across our entire product range.
According to Prabhudas Liladhar research, the testing cost is Rs 60 lakh per car under Bharat NCAP, compared to Rs 2.5 crore if done overseas. The system involves three key tests — frontal impact at 64kph, side impact and side pole impact at 29kph for cars rated 3 stars or more. Cars rated 3 stars or above must possess electronic stability control and front seat belt reminders. Prabhudas Liladhar view is that while this is entirely voluntary and will likely be slow in adoption, “there could be more emphasis on manufacturing of safer vehicles by the OEMs and increased awareness in customers’ mind due to localisation of the testing process over the years”.
The roll out of BNCAP norms is, according to Myung-Sik Sohn, Chief Sales and Business Officer, Kia India, an enhanced road safety movement that extends much beyond just safety ratings for cars. Sohn assures the company will wholeheartedly comply with the Government’s “visionary approach to safety, encompassing both active and passive safety components”. Finding it ‘aligned with the Atmanirbhar Vision of the Government’ Sohn says, “this move eliminates the need and associated costs of testing vehicles outside. It will also elevate the global reputation of products from India to the world with good ratings in a big way.”
The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) calls the launch of BNCAP a transformative initiative towards safer vehicles in India. “The launch of BNCAP protocol is indeed historic. It will lead to the integration of advanced safety features in vehicles thus minimising the risk of road accidents and fatalities,” says Vinnie Mehta, Director General, ACMA. “The Indian auto component industry embraces this initiative wholeheartedly, recognizing its pivotal role in driving growth and global competitiveness,” says Mehta.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor also lauds the Government’s decision to introduce Bharat-NCAP as a step in the right direction. The decision comes at a time when consumers are looking at highest standards of safety and seeking for safer vehicles, which is steering the purchase decision, points out Vikram Gulati, Country Head & Executive Vice President, TKM. “In addition to empowering consumers, this will also help bring about greater awareness and further transparency by allowing them to
know comparative safety aspects of various products on offer,” says Gulati, adding that for TKM, safety is non-negotiable. “We have always taken all measures to ensure that our offerings meet the highest standards in all respects. Looking ahead, we will continue to follow a holistic approach which includes making of ever safer cars, with advanced features, as well as focusing on safety educational activities,” affirms Gulati.
Industry body ACMA is anticipating a safer automotive landscape and a future where Indian
auto component manufacturers thrive on the global stage, while also contributing to responsible driving practices, reduced healthcare burdens and potential incentives from the insurance sector.