The Global New Car Assessment Program’s (NCAP’s) latest round of crash tests has thrown up dismal results as five Indian cars were given a zero star.
Crash tests were conducted on the Renault Kwid, Maruti Suzuki Celerio and the Eeco, Mahindra Scorpio and Hyundai Eon and the results showed low levels of protection for adult occupants.
Specifically, in the case of the Renault Kwid, three versions, including one with airbags, was tested, but each was rated as zero star for adult safety.
Commenting on this, the Secretary General of Global NCAP, David Ward, said it was very surprising that a manufacturer like Renault initially introduced the Kwid without a feature as essential as an airbag.
The results of this latest test are pertinent because auto companies were expected to perform better given the rising debate over vehicle safety in India - remember the Indian government has mandated front and side impact crash tests from October 2017.
Also, the results come two years after the poor safety record of Indian carmakers was first exposed when the NCAP tested five cars and all were rated as zero stars.
In the next round of NCAP tests, the reinforced Kwid, along with cars from two more original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will face crash tests.Watch video for more.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
