The Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP), India’s official vehicle safety rating initiative, is set for a major overhaul with the launch of Bharat NCAP 2.0 in 2027.
According to industry sources, the new iteration will add full-frontal and rear crash impact tests, advanced crash-test dummies, and greater emphasis on driver-assist technologies to improve both adult and child occupant safety.
The current Bharat NCAP protocol has been in place since October 2023 and has tested 24 vehicles so far under its voluntary framework. The upcoming update aims to align more closely with global safety standards.
Current Testing Methods
At present, Bharat NCAP evaluates vehicles through:
- Frontal (partial offset) impact tests: 40% of the car’s front width impacts a deformable barrier from the driver’s side.
- Side impact tests assessing the vehicle’s resistance in lateral collisions.
- Side pole impact tests simulating collisions with narrow objects like poles or trees.
- Child restraint system (CRS) assessments ensuring safe installation and effectiveness.
- Safety-assist feature reviews including ABS, ESC, and seatbelt reminders.
Ratings are given separately for adult occupants and child occupants, up to a maximum of 5 stars.
What’s New in Bharat NCAP 2.0
Key updates expected in BNCAP 2.0 include:
- Full-frontal crash tests
- Simulates an entire front-width collision, replicating high-speed head-on impacts.
- Will provide deeper insights into structural integrity and restraint system efficiency.
- Rear crash impact tests
- First-time inclusion for India’s program.
- Evaluates whiplash protection, fuel system safety, and rear passenger protection.
- Advanced crash-test dummies
- More sensors for precise force measurements during impacts.
- Enhanced analysis for side pole impacts and head injuries.
|
Test Type |
Purpose |
New in BNCAP 2.0 |
|
Full-Frontal |
Assesses performance in complete head-on collisions |
Yes |
|
Rear Impact |
Evaluates fuel system safety & rear occupant protection |
Yes |
|
Partial Offset |
Checks structural strength in driver-side collisions |
No |
|
Side Pole Impact |
Measures protection from narrow-object collisions |
No |
Benefits for Automakers and Consumers
By introducing Bharat NCAP 2.0, India will take a significant step toward improving road safety. Automakers will gain:
- More accurate data to refine airbags, restraint systems, and structural reinforcements.
- An incentive to design vehicles with stronger rear passenger safety measures.
For consumers, the updated testing protocol means more reliable safety ratings, helping buyers choose vehicles that offer comprehensive protection in various crash scenarios.
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