Global NCAP currently possesses approximately 10 Indian cars that are scheduled for crash testing. However, they have decided that after this batch, they will no longer conduct tests on Indian cars. This decision is in alignment with the launch of Bharat NCAP, which is the 10th NCAP program globally. The objective behind this strategic choice is to avoid any potential confusion among consumers and promote a unified approach to vehicle safety in India.
A Decade of Safer Cars for India
The Safer Cars for India campaign by Global NCAP, initiated in 2013, has played a significant role in raising awareness and advocating for safer vehicles on Indian roads. Over the past ten years, this campaign has subjected more than 50 models to rigorous crash tests, totaling 62 tests in all. The primary focus has always been on evaluating the build quality and safety features of passenger vehicles manufactured in India.
However, due to the increasing momentum of Bharat NCAP, scheduled for an official launch in October, Global NCAP has made a strategic decision to conclude its Safer Cars for India campaign by the end of this year. This choice highlights Global NCAP’s dedication to providing support and working in cooperation with the newly established Bharat NCAP, rather than engaging in competition with it. David Ward, representing Global NCAP, has emphasized that they aim to avoid being seen as a competing program to Bharat NCAP.
A Collaborative Approach for Bharat NCAP & India’s NCAP Journey
To facilitate this transition, Global NCAP has formalized an agreement, known as a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the Central Institute for Road Transport (CIRT), which serves as the technical secretariat for the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). This MoU establishes a cooperative framework akin to the relationships that Global NCAP maintains with other NCAP programs worldwide.
Under this MoU, Global NCAP will provide technical support based on its extensive experience gained over the past decade of vehicle testing. This support includes sharing Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs), best practices, and technical insights. It also encompasses guidance on the selection of vehicles for testing, inspection of tests, and communication strategies for sharing test results. Additionally, the MoU addresses the critical issue of responsible use of test results by vehicle manufacturers in their advertisements, with the aim of preventing any potential misuse of safety ratings.
David Ward, Executive President of Global NCAP, commends India’s remarkable progress in the field of NCAP testing. He notes that the Indian process has been relatively swift and effective compared to the European counterpart. This speaks to the commitment and cooperation demonstrated by the Indian automotive industry and regulatory authorities.
While discussions about regulations and their impact on affordability have persisted, the launch of Bharat NCAP is viewed as a significant step forward in enhancing vehicle safety standards in India. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasized the importance of both cost and quality, highlighting that consumers are increasingly concerned about vehicle safety. Car manufacturers in India have embraced the Bharat NCAP initiative, with over 30 models from various manufacturers lined up for testing. The development of Bharat NCAP began in 2011, and it has taken over a decade to come to fruition. With the support of Global NCAP and its wealth of experience, India-made vehicles are expected to achieve higher safety standards and gain greater acceptance in global markets.
