Tata Motors, the renowned Indian automobile manufacturer, has made headlines with its SUV models, Safari and Harrier, becoming the first vehicles to achieve a coveted five-star safety rating under the Bharat-NCAP indigenous car safety rating program. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister, Nitin Gadkari, commended Tata Motors for their commitment to vehicle safety, marking a significant milestone in the automotive industry.
Introduction to Bharat-NCAP
Launched by the Indian government in August, the Bharat-NCAP program aims to assess the safety systems of vehicles based on Indian standards, aligned with the highest global security benchmarks. NCAP, a global vehicle safety accreditation group, evaluates vehicles on various aspects related to accidents, with a five-star rating signifying excellence in crash tests.
Rating Process and Applicability
Car manufacturers or importers seeking a rating under India-NCAP must apply to the government-nominated agency using Form 70-A. The agency assigns a star rating based on the Vehicle Industry Standard (AIS)-197. The Bharat-NCAP program applies to M1 approved vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of less than 3.5 tonnes, offering ratings from 1 to 5 stars, where a five-star rating represents the highest level of safety.
Tata Motors’ Triumph in Safety
Tata Motors’ Safari and Harrier SUVs’ achievement of a five-star safety rating underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing customer safety. This accolade positions Tata Motors as a leader in providing safe and secure vehicles on Indian roads. The Bharat-NCAP program contributes significantly to consumer awareness by furnishing vital information about the safety features and capabilities of different car models, aiding buyers in making informed decisions.
