The Government of India has introduced the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP), a groundbreaking vehicle safety initiative. Starting from October 1, 2023, this program evaluates the safety of vehicles based on the Automotive Industry Standard AIS 197.
Safety
Vehicles falling within the M1 category, capable of carrying up to 8 passengers and with a gross weight not exceeding 3.5 tonnes, are eligible for assessment under BNCAP. This also includes imported cars, CNG, and electric vehicles.
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Here are the benefits of the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP)
- Improved Vehicle Safety: BNCAP ensures vehicles adhere to high safety standards through comprehensive testing, leading to safer vehicles on the road.
- Informed Consumer Decisions: Clear safety ratings empower consumers to make knowledgeable choices, favouring vehicles with higher safety ratings.
- Manufacturer Incentives: Manufacturers are motivated to enhance safety features and structural integrity to achieve better safety ratings.
- Transparency and Accountability: Public disclosure of safety ratings fosters transparency, making manufacturers more accountable for vehicle safety.
- Reduced Accidents: Safer vehicles contribute to fewer accidents and subsequently fewer injuries and fatalities.
- Focus on Child Safety: BNCAP’s evaluation considers child occupant protection, ensuring the safety of young passengers.
More benefits
- Technological Advancements: Demand for higher safety ratings drives the development and implementation of innovative safety technologies.
- Global Standardization: BNCAP aligns India’s safety assessment practices with international norms, facilitating cross-market safety comparisons.
- Government’s Commitment: The program showcases the government’s dedication to enhancing road safety.
- Long-Term Impact: Gradual implementation results in a substantial reduction in road accidents, injuries, and fatalities over time.
- Increased Awareness: BNCAP raises public awareness about vehicle safety, encouraging safety-conscious purchasing decisions.
- Data-Driven Improvements: The program generates data for targeted safety enhancements, aiding policymaking and industry improvements.
Bharat New Car Assessment Program
Car manufacturers are required to select a specific model for testing. A random sampling process at manufacturing facilities or dealerships determines the base variant. Once selected, the manufacturer sends the chosen vehicle to a testing centre.
The selected vehicles undergo rigorous crash testing, including frontal impact, side impact, and pole side impact tests, all conducted at a speed of 64 km/h. These tests evaluate structural integrity, occupant protection, and safety assist technologies.
Government Commitment
BNCAP assesses vehicles for adult and child occupant protection, along with safety assist technologies. The outcome of the tests assigns vehicles a safety rating ranging from 1 to 5 stars, with higher stars indicating superior safety performance.
Following approval from a standing committee, the Central Institute for Road Transport (CIRL) issues certificates to compliant vehicles. These vehicles are entitled to display the Bharat NCAP logo and a sticker showcasing their safety rating.
Long-Term Impact
BNCAP not only raises awareness about vehicle safety but also encourages manufacturers to prioritize safety features and structural strength. By empowering consumers with safety information, this program plays a pivotal role in making vehicle purchasing decisions more informed.
Scheduled for launch on October 1, 2023, the Bharat New Car Assessment Program is set to revolutionize the automotive industry in India, promoting safer vehicles and contributing to overall road safety.
