In a significant development for automotive safety in India, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles has emerged as the frontrunner in the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) ratings, securing 5-star safety ratings for a remarkable 10 of its models. This achievement covers both adult and child occupant protection, setting a high benchmark for the industry.
Tata Motors Leads the Pack
Tata Motors' extensive portfolio demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, with ten models earning the top 5-star rating from BNCAP. These include popular vehicles such as the Safari, Harrier, and their electric counterparts, the Harrier.ev and Nexon.ev. Other top-rated models from Tata include the Curvv, Curvv.ev, Altroz, Punch, Punch.ev, and the Sierra.
Mahindra & Mahindra and Maruti Suzuki Follow Suit
Close behind Tata Motors, homegrown automaker Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has five models that achieved a 5-star BNCAP rating. These include the 3XO, XUV400 EV, Thar Roxx, BE 6, and the XEV 9E. India's largest carmaker by volume, Maruti Suzuki, also features prominently with four 5-star BNCAP rated vehicles: the Victoris, Dzire, Invicto, and its first electric car, the e-Vitara.
Other Manufacturers with 5-Star Ratings
Several other manufacturers have also achieved 5-star ratings for their models under the Bharat NCAP:
- Hyundai Motor India: The recently launched Venue.
- Kia: The Syros and Seltos.
- Skoda: The Kylaq.
- Toyota: The Innova Hycross.
- Renault: The Duster.
- VinFast: The electric SUVs VF6 and VF7.
Understanding Bharat NCAP
The Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) was launched in 2023 by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari. Its primary aim is to enhance safety standards for cars weighing up to 3.5 tonnes. Previously, Indian carmakers often sent their vehicles abroad for safety assessments by agencies like the Global New Car Assessment Programme (Global NCAP).
While BNCAP remains a voluntary program, its introduction reflects and reinforces a growing trend among Indian car buyers who are increasingly prioritizing vehicle safety. The program evaluates vehicles across five crucial criteria:
- Structural integrity
- Protection for adult passengers
- Safety of child occupants
- Pedestrian-friendly design
- Inclusion of both active and passive safety technologies
This comprehensive assessment ensures that vehicles earning high ratings offer robust protection to occupants and contribute to overall road safety.