(THE GIST OF PIB) Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme)

(August-2023)

Recently, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways launched the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP) in New Delhi.

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.