The Indian government will put the new Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP) into action on October 1, 2023
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India has introduced the Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Program), its own institution for conducting crash tests of cars sold in the country. The purpose is to assign safety ratings to these cars. The initiative was announced by Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
Need Of Bharat NCAP
The Bharat NCAP aligns with internationally recognized crash-testing agencies like the Global NCAP, Euro NCAP, Australian NCAP, and Latin NCAP.
![Mahindra Scorpio N Global NCAP]()
Conducting crash tests locally will reduce the expenses for carmakers, who would otherwise have to send their cars to global players for testing. It was revealed during the Bharat NCAP presentation that international testing costs around Rs 2.5 crore, whereas opting for the Bharat NCAP could bring the cost down to Rs 60 lakh. The crash-test ratings provided by Bharat NCAP will specifically cater to the India-spec models, helping Indian consumers make more informed purchasing decisions.
The need for enhanced safety measures is driven by the high number of road accident fatalities in India each year. Additionally, as part of India’s long-term plan to become a developed nation, higher motor speeds are expected. Therefore, vehicles need to meet safety standards to ensure the well-being of passengers. Moreover, high-performing models that meet stringent safety tests can have expanded export potential in global markets.
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What Tests Will Be Conducted?
The Bharat NCAP will conduct various crash tests similar to Global NCAP and other established authorities. These tests include frontal offset, side impact, and side pole impact tests.
![Kia Carens crash-tested]()
The frontal offset test will be conducted at 64kmph, while the side impact and side pole impact tests will be performed at 50kmph and 29kmph, respectively. The test score will take into account the structural integrity of the vehicle as well as the safety assist technologies available.
The details of the tests and the expected performance standards are specified in the AIS-197, which will determine the final score assigned to a car by Bharat NCAP.
Rating System
![Global NCAP To Start Crash Tests In India By End Of 2023]()
All tested cars will receive ratings for adult occupant protection (AOP) and child occupant protection (COP) based on the following parameters:
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AOP
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COP
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Star rating
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Score
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Star rating
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Score
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5 stars
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27
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5 stars
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41
|
|
4 stars
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22
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4 stars
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35
|
|
3 stars
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16
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3 stars
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27
|
|
2 stars
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10
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2 stars
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18
|
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1 star
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4
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1 star
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9
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Only cars that score three stars or higher will be subjected to the pole side impact test.
What Cars Will Be Tested?
The Bharat NCAP will conduct crash tests voluntarily. Any vehicle falling under the M1 category (capable of seating up to eight occupants in addition to the driver) and weighing less than 3.5 tonnes or 3500kg will be eligible for testing.
![It’ll Be Harder To Get A 5-Star GNCAP Crash Test Rating From July 2022]()
The base variant of popular models (defined as cars that have sold 30,000 units in the previous calendar year) with basic safety equipment will be tested. However, carmakers can request the Bharat NCAP to test an updated version if they intend to replace the selected model with a newer one soon.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) can also recommend models falling under the Bharat NCAP’s protocols based on market feedback and analysis. Additionally, if deemed necessary for public safety, the Government of India can request the authority to select a specific variant for assessment.
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Bharat NCAP To Be In Action Soon
The Indian crash-testing authority will begin operations on October 1, 2023.
