Are you concerned about the safety standards of cars you encounter daily on the bustling streets? The entry of the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) resolves this problem and is a unique solution.

This initiative, backed by the government, strictly scrutinises the safety performance of passenger vehicles via comprehensive NCAP crash tests and assessments. So let’s take a detailed look and understand what NCAP is, what it means to us that there is NCAP for Indian cars and how it shifts vehicle safety standards across the nation.

Bharat NCAP introduces an indigenous star-rating system to check the safety of cars in India. Under this program, manufacturers voluntarily nominate vehicles for crash testing based on protocols already aligned with Automotive Industry Standard 197.

Passenger vehicles with up to eight seats and a gross weight under 3,500 kg are eligible for evaluation. The program aims to increase vehicle safety by analysing and scrutinizing structural integrity, child safety features, and occupant protection. This initiative might potentially help many Indians be safe on the streets, as it might avoid unnecessary accidents caused by basic structural malfunction.

Bharat NCAP conducts crash tests to assign star NCAP safety ratings ranging from 1 to 5 Stars, with 5 being the highest. The NCAP rating system tests evaluate Adult Occupant Protection (AOP), Child Occupant Protection (COP), and the Fitment of Safety Assist Technologies.

Protocols included in the tests are Front Impact, Side Impact, and Side Pole conducted at specified speeds. Ratings are based on adult and child safety criteria, with minimum score requirements for each star rating.

Vehicles falling under the M1 category, which can carry up to eight occupants and weigh under 3.5 tonnes, usually qualify for Bharat NCAP evaluation. This includes cars produced or imported into India, CNG, and electric vehicles. The program aims to include a wide range of vehicles to promote safety across diverse segments.

The process begins with manufacturers nominating base models for evaluation assessment. Selected vehicles undergo crash testing at a designated facility, with representatives witnessing the tests to maintain the test’s authenticity.

Upon approval, Bharat NCAP discloses and publishes ratings accompanied by certificates issued by the Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT).

While Bharat NCAP focuses on India-specific safety challenges, Global NCAP operates internationally and sets global safety standards. Bharat NCAP ratings reflect local road conditions and challenges, while Global NCAP sticks to general international benchmarks. Both organisations employ star rating systems to denote safety levels, but with distinct criteria and interpretations.

Bharat NCAP has emerged as an excellent initiative for promoting vehicle safety in India. As demand for safer cars rises, consumers can make informed decisions based on safety ratings so that they and others on the road can always stay protected. However, ensuring safety doesn't end with vehicle selection; it extends to obtaining comprehensive car and two-wheeler insurance for proper financial protection.

Getting car insurance and two-wheeler insurance for your motorbike will keep your mental well-being safe by ensuring you are financially protected. As we applaud initiatives like Bharat NCAP, let's prioritise safety at every turn to safeguard ourselves and our vehicles.