MUMBAI :

Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP), a vital initiative undertaken by the Government of India, in order to enhance road safety, is here, and will come into effect from October 1, 2023. The implementation of Bharat NCAP, in India, is an important step towards safeguarding people’s lives by ensuring that vehicles now adhere to more stringent safety norms; besides, the move is also expected to help buyers make more informed decisions as vehicles will now receive star safety ratings on a scale of Zero-Five. The auto industry has been unequivocal in its support of Bharat NCAP as it not only brings down costs for getting the assessments done abroad, but mainly because it greatly helps reduce the risks associated with road accidents while encouraging a safer ecosystem when it comes to transportation across India. Here’s a look at what some of the leaders of the auto Industry had to say about Bharat NCAP:

Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd.

"As Tata Motors, we are immensely proud to witness the inauguration of Bharat-NCAP, a significant milestone in enhancing vehicle safety standards in India. Safety has always been at the core of our DNA, and this initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering vehicles that prioritize the safety of our customers. We applaud the collaborative efforts of the government, regulatory bodies, and the automotive industry in setting higher safety benchmarks. Tata Motors remains dedicated to innovate and engineer vehicles that offer cutting-edge features and ensure the highest levels of safety for all road users."

Veejay Nakra, President – Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra

“At Mahindra, we welcome the introduction of the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP) by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Safety has always been our top priority which is evident in our products consistently receiving 5-star & 4-star Global NCAP (GNCAP) ratings. The launch of Bharat NCAP is a commendable initiative by MoRTH, and we believe it will further elevate the standards of vehicle safety in India. We will continue to keep customers at the forefront of our journey of innovation and integrating safety with advanced technology while shaping a safer automotive future for India.”

Petr Šolc, the Brand Director at Škoda Auto India

“A recently released survey highlights that safety is getting greater importance by customers, in the car purchase decision. Our cars have always offered the highest safety and quality standards. Škoda has an over 50-year legacy with crash-tests and safety. And since 2008, every Škoda car has been crash-tested globally, and in India, with the highest possible 5-star safety rating. We appreciate that the Indian Government is putting greater emphasis on safety regulations and policies that improves car safety. The introduction of BNCAP is a step in the right direction. Safety is an important aspect and active and passive safety features, along with the structure of the car keeps the driver and their family safe. Škoda is a family brand, and safety of all customers is our top priority. Škoda will continue focusing on safety to further grow the brand in the Indian market.”

Myung-Sik Sohn, Chief Sales and Business Officer, Kia India

"BNCAP is an enhanced road safety movement that extends much beyond just safety ratings for cars. We wholeheartedly commend and will comply with the Government of India for its visionary approach to safety, encompassing both active and passive safety components. Aligned with the Atmanirbhar Vision of the Government of India, this move eliminates the need and associated costs of testing vehicles outside. It will also elevate the global reputation of products from India to the world with good ratings in a big way”.

Vinnie Mehta, Director General, ACMA

“The launch of BNCAP protocol is indeed historic. It will lead to the integration of advanced safety features in vehicles thus minimising the risk of road accidents and fatalities. This initiative will not only bolster the auto component industry’s value chain but will also stimulate the production of cutting-edge components, encourage innovation, and create global excellence. We anticipate a safer automotive landscape and a future where Indian auto component manufacturers thrive on the global stage, while also contributing to responsible driving practices, reduced healthcare burdens, and potential incentives from the insurance sector.  The Indian Auto Component Industry embraces this initiative wholeheartedly, recognizing its pivotal role in driving growth and global competitiveness”.

Unsoo Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Limited

“We welcome the BNCAP safety initiative by Govt. of India and believe this effort will raise safety standards, empower consumers with vital information, and make Indian roads safer for all. At Hyundai Motor India, we remain committed to delivering the highest safety standards across our entire product range”.