Last Updated: January 21 2026
- This article lists all passenger vehicles that have been tested by Bharat NCAP so far, along with their safety ratings and detailed scores.
Bharat NCAP has fundamentally changed how vehicle safety is evaluated and communicated in India. For the first time, buyers have access to government-backed crash test results that go beyond marketing claims and provide measurable safety performance data under Indian testing protocols.
Unlike earlier global assessments that applied a one-size-fits-all approach, Bharat NCAP focuses on Indian vehicle specifications, seating layouts, restraint systems and standard equipment, making its results directly relevant to domestic buyers. Importantly, Bharat NCAP publishes numerical scores for adult and child occupant protection in addition to star ratings, allowing deeper comparison between vehicles.
This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of every car tested so far, including exact scores, body type context, powertrain differences, and what the numbers mean in real-world crashes.
Understanding Bharat NCAP Scores and Star Ratings
Bharat NCAP evaluates vehicles across two primary protection categories:
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP)
Maximum score: 32 points
This measures injury protection for the driver and front passenger in frontal offset and side impact crashes.
Child Occupant Protection (COP)
Maximum score: 49 points
This evaluates protection for child occupants using crash dummies, ISOFIX performance, and child restraint compatibility.
To achieve a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, a vehicle must demonstrate:
- A stable passenger compartment
- Strong frontal and side impact protection
- Effective restraint systems (airbags and seatbelts)
- Mandatory safety systems such as ESC
- Consistent child occupant protection
The scores matter more than the stars, especially when comparing vehicles within the same segment.
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Cars With 5-Star Bharat NCAP Rating
VinFast VF6
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 27.13 / 32 points
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 44.41 / 49 points
- Applicability: Ratings apply to all variants (Earth, Wind, and Wind Infinity).
Key Safety Observations:
- Frontal Impact: Head, neck, and upper leg protection for the driver and passenger were rated “Good” (maximum 4.000 points). However, protection for the driver’s chest was marked as “Weak,” which resulted in point deductions.
- Side Impact: Achieved a perfect score of 16/16 for adult protection and 8/8 for child protection.
- Safety Features: 7 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and standard ISOFIX mounts.
VinFast VF7
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 28.54 / 32 points
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 45.25 / 49 points
- Applicability: Ratings apply to all variants (Earth, Wind, Wind Infinity, Sky, and Sky Infinity).
Key Safety Observations:
- Top Scorer: The VF7’s COP score of 45.25 is currently one of the highest in the program’s history for child safety.
- Frontal Impact: Similar to the VF6, it showed “Weak” protection for the driver’s chest, though it managed a slightly higher overall AOP score due to better shin and lower leg protection.
- Side Impact: Achieved full scores (16/16) in the side movable barrier test and was rated “OK” in the side pole impact test.
- Safety Features: 7 airbags and a comprehensive ADAS suite (available on higher trims).
Tata Punch 2026
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Tata Punch Facelift (2026) has officially secured a 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, as revealed today, January 20, 2026. This result reaffirms the micro-SUV’s position as one of the safest vehicles in its segment, matching the high safety standards set by its predecessor.
Bharat NCAP Score Breakdown
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 30.58 out of 32 points.
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 45.00 out of 49 points.
The testing agency noted “Good” to “Adequate” protection for most critical body parts in both frontal and side impact tests. Notably, the Punch facelift scored a perfect 24/24 in child dynamic testing.
Tata Safari / Tata Harrier (Diesel)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Tata Safari and Tata Harrier are among the highest-scoring vehicles tested under Bharat NCAP. Both SUVs recorded Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) scores above 30 out of 32 and Child Occupant Protection (COP) scores above 44 out of 49, resulting in a full 5-star rating.
The tests showed a stable passenger compartment in frontal offset crashes, with controlled deformation and strong protection for the head, chest, and legs of front occupants. Side impact performance was also rated highly, aided by standard side and curtain airbags. The high child occupant score reflects effective ISOFIX anchor placement, good dummy readings, and clear child restraint installation compatibility.
Tata Safari / Tata Harrier (Petrol – Extended Rating)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The petrol-powered versions of the Safari and Harrier underwent extended Bharat NCAP evaluation to confirm whether the change in powertrain affected safety performance. Results showed no meaningful reduction in AOP or COP scores compared to the diesel variants. This confirms that the body structure, restraint systems, and crash energy management remain unchanged, making petrol and diesel versions equally safe from a crash-protection standpoint.
Tata Harrier.ev
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The electric version of the Harrier also achieved a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, with AOP slightly above 30 and COP above 44. Despite the additional weight of the battery pack, the vehicle maintained a stable cabin during frontal and side impacts. Battery enclosure integrity and underfloor protection were key contributors, ensuring no intrusion into the passenger compartment. Child occupant protection remained strong, showing that electrification did not compromise rear-seat safety.
Tata Nexon
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Tata Nexon (ICE) achieved a 5-star rating with AOP close to 29.41 and COP above 43.83. The frontal offset test showed good head and neck protection, with only minor deductions for chest readings. Side impact protection was rated good, and the passenger cell remained stable. The Nexon’s result is significant for the compact SUV segment, where achieving such high scores was once uncommon.
Tata Nexon.ev
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Nexon.ev slightly improved on the ICE version’s performance, scoring nearly 29.86 points in AOP and 44.95 points in COP, securing a 5-star rating. Improved underbody rigidity and weight distribution contributed to marginally better results. The EV’s child occupant performance was among the strongest in its class.
Tata Punch.ev
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
Despite being a compact electric vehicle, the Punch.ev recorded AOP 31.46 and COP 45, earning a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. The result demonstrates that vehicle size does not dictate crash safety. The Punch.ev showed controlled deformation, effective airbag deployment, and excellent child occupant protection, making it one of the safest cars in its footprint category.
Also Read: Tata Punch Facelift 2026: Spy Shots, Launch Date and Price(Confrimed)
Tata Curvv
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Tata Curvv (ICE) achieved a 5-star rating with AOP 29.50 and COP 43.66. The coupe-SUV body style did not negatively impact crash performance. Side impact results were particularly strong, and the roof structure maintained integrity during testing. Child occupant scores benefited from good rear seat geometry and restraint effectiveness.
Tata Curvv.ev
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Curvv.ev matched the ICE version’s performance, scoring 30.81 in AOP and 44.83 in COP, resulting in a 5-star rating. Battery protection and reinforced side sills helped maintain structural stability. The EV’s COP score places it among the best-performing electric vehicles tested so far.
Tata Altroz
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Tata Altroz has set a high standard for the premium hatchback segment by securing a full 5-star safety rating for both adult and child occupant protection in the 2025 Bharat NCAP tests. It achieved an impressive adult protection score of 29.65 out of 32, offering “Good” protection for the head, neck, and chest of front occupants. Its child safety performance was equally strong, scoring 44.90 out of 49, thanks to its standard i-Size ISOFIX mounts and stable structural integrity. A key highlight of the Altroz is that this top-tier safety rating applies across all its engine options—including Petrol, Diesel, and CNG—making it the safest hatchback in India regardless of the fuel type chosen. Standard safety features across the range now include 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and 3-point seatbelts for all passengers, further reinforcing its reputation for “gold standard” safety.
Maruti Suzuki e Vitara
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Maruti Suzuki e Vitara has made history as the brand’s first electric vehicle to achieve a perfect 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP for both adult and child occupant protection. Tested in December 2025, the e Vitara recorded a stellar adult protection score of 31.49 out of 32 points, providing “Good” protection for the head, neck, and lower body, with “Adequate” protection for the chest and tibias. Its child safety performance was also top-tier, scoring 43 out of 49 points and achieving perfect scores in dynamic crash tests for both 18-month-old and 3-year-old dummies. Built on the new HEARTECT-e platform, the electric SUV comes standard with a class-leading 7 airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag) and Level 2 ADAS in its higher trims.4 This 5-star rating applies across all variants (Delta, Zeta, and Alpha), positioning the e Vitara as one of the safest vehicles in Maruti Suzuki’s entire Indian portfolio.
Maruti Suzuki Victoris
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Maruti Suzuki Victoris achieved a prestigious 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) in late 2025, marking a significant milestone for the brand. It recorded one of the highest scores for a Maruti vehicle to date, particularly in adult protection.
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 31.66 / 32.00 (5 Stars)
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 43.00 / 49.00 (5 Stars)
With an AOP score of 31.66, the Victoris actually outscored many established safety leaders in the BNCAP tests, including the Tata Safari/Harrier (30.08) and the Tata Nexon (29.41). It currently sits just behind elite performers like the Tata Harrier EV and Mahindra BE 6.
Maruti Suzuki Invicto
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Maruti Suzuki Invicto has joined the ranks of India’s safest vehicles by earning a full 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) for both adult and child occupant protection. Tested in September 2025, the Invicto recorded a strong adult protection score of 30.43 out of 32 points and a child safety score of 45 out of 49 points. This result makes it the third Maruti Suzuki model to receive a 5-star BNCAP rating, following the Dzire and the Victoris.
Maruti Suzuki Dzire (Petrol)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Dzire achieved a mixed outcome: 5 stars for adult occupant protection with AOP above 29, but a lower COP score around 39, resulting in 4 stars for child occupant protection. The adult score reflects good frontal crash performance, while the lower child score highlights limitations in rear-seat child restraint effectiveness.
Mahindra Thar Roxx
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Mahindra Thar Roxx has made history by becoming the first body-on-frame SUV to secure a perfect 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) for both adult and child occupant protection. Tested in late 2024, it achieved an adult occupant protection score of 31.09 out of 32 points, which remains the highest score ever recorded by an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle in the BNCAP testing history. The SUV demonstrated exceptional structural integrity, scoring 15.09/16 in frontal impacts and a perfect 16/16 in side-impact tests. For child safety, it earned a stellar 45 out of 49 points, achieving full marks in dynamic tests for both 18-month-old and 3-year-old child dummies. This world-class safety performance is supported by a comprehensive standard kit including 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and 3-point seatbelts for all passengers, while higher trims further enhance protection with Level 2 ADAS features.
Mahindra XUV 3XO
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Mahindra XUV 3XO achieved a perfect 5-star safety rating for both adult and child occupant protection in the Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) tests conducted in late 2024. In the adult protection category, it recorded a score of 29.36 out of 32 points, demonstrating high structural integrity by providing “Good” protection for the head and neck of front occupants, though protection for the driver’s chest and left leg was rated as “Adequate” and “Marginal,” respectively. The SUV particularly excelled in side-impact evaluations, securing a perfect 16 out of 16 in the side movable barrier test and an “OK” rating for the side pole impact test. Its child safety performance was equally impressive, scoring 43 out of 49 points and earning full marks in dynamic tests for both 18-month-old and 3-year-old dummies. Mahindra has equipped the XUV 3XO with 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and 3-point seatbelts as standard across all variants, while the top-spec trims further distinguish themselves in the segment by offering Level 2 ADAS features.
Mahindra XUV400 EV
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Mahindra XUV400 EV achieved a solid 5-star safety rating for both adult and child occupant protection in the Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) tests conducted in late 2024. It recorded an adult protection score of 30.38 out of 32 points, slightly outperforming its direct rival, the Tata Nexon EV. The electric SUV demonstrated exceptional structural integrity in side-impact tests with a perfect 16 out of 16 score, while its frontal offset performance was rated at 14.38 out of 16, providing “Good” protection for the head and neck but “Adequate” protection for the driver’s chest and legs. For child safety, it earned 43 out of 49 points, achieving full marks in both dynamic crash tests and child seat (CRS) installation. Standard safety equipment includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC), all-wheel disc brakes, and ISOFIX mounts across all variants, while the higher-spec EL Pro trim adds 6 airbags and a reverse camera to the package.
Mahindra BE 6
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
Mahindra BE 6 secured a perfect 5-star safety rating for both adult and child occupant protection in the Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) tests. Published in early 2025, the results highlight the effectiveness of Mahindra’s new INGLO electric-origin platform, which places the battery low in the chassis to create a protective “cage” around the cabin.
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 31.97 out of 32 points (5 Stars)
Child Occupant Protection (COP): 45.00 out of 49 points (5 Stars)
Mahindra XEV 9e
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The XEV 9e achieved one of the highest COP scores published so far, exceeding 45 points, with AOP also 45.00 out of 49.00, securing a 5-star rating. The results highlight Mahindra’s strong emphasis on rear-seat and child safety in its newer EV platforms.
Toyota Innova Hycross
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Toyota Innova Hycross achieved a perfect 5-star safety rating for both adult and child occupant protection in the Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) tests conducted in mid-2025. It recorded a strong adult protection score of 30.47 out of 32 points, demonstrating excellent structural integrity with “Good” protection for the head and neck of front occupants, though chest protection for both the driver and passenger was rated as “Adequate.” For child safety, it earned a high score of 45 out of 49 points, securing full marks in dynamic crash tests for both 18-month-old and 3-year-old dummies using rearward-facing child seats. Standard safety features include 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and 3-point seatbelts for all occupants across all three rows, while the top-spec variants further enhance safety with the Toyota Safety Sense (ADAS Level 2) suite.
Hyundai Tucson
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Hyundai Tucson is the first Hyundai model to earn a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for both adults and children.
Safety Kit: It comes standard with 6 airbags and stability control, while the top trims add Level 2 ADAS (like auto-braking and lane assist) for extra peace of mind.
Adult Safety (30.84/32): It scored a perfect 16/16 in side-impact tests and showed strong structural integrity in frontal crashes, keeping the head and neck well-protected.
Child Safety (41/49): It got full marks for protecting toddlers in actual crash simulations, making it a very reliable family SUV.
Kia Syros
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 30.21 out of 32 points (5 Stars)
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 44.42 out of 49 points (5 Stars)
- Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Before the Syros, Kia models like the Seltos and Carens had received mixed or lower ratings (typically 3 stars) in Global NCAP tests. The Syros’ 5-star result places it in direct competition with other safety-focused SUVs in its segment, such as the Skoda Kylaq (which scored slightly higher with 30.88 in AOP) and the Tata Nexon.
Skoda Kylaq
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)
The Kylaq is built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, the same platform used for the Kushaq and Slavia (which both hold 5-star Global NCAP ratings). With its 30.88 AOP score, the Kylaq has marginally outperformed key rivals in the BNCAP tests:
- Kia Syros: 30.21/32 (AOP)
- Tata Nexon: 29.41/32 (AOP)
- Mahindra XUV 3XO: 29.36/32 (AOP)
Cars With 4-Star Bharat NCAP Rating
Maruti Suzuki Baleno (6 Airbags)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 26.52 out of 32 points (4 Stars)
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 34.81 out of 49 points (3 Stars)
- Overall Rating: 4 Stars (Adult) / 3 Stars (Child)
The 4-star BNCAP rating is a major step up for the Baleno, especially considering previous-generation models had struggled in international tests. It now stands as a competitive option for safety-conscious buyers in the premium hatchback segment.
Key Safety Features
The 6-airbag variants of the Baleno come equipped with several safety technologies:
- 6 Airbags: Front, side, and curtain airbags (now standard on Zeta and Alpha trims).
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Includes hill-hold assist to prevent rollback on slopes.
- 360-Degree Camera: Helps with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces (Alpha trim).
- Brake Assist: Provides extra stopping power during emergency braking.
- ISOFIX Mounts: Standard for securing child seats in the rear.
Citroën C3 Aircross (5-Seater)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)
The C3 Aircross outperformed its sibling, the Citroën Basalt, which scored a 4-star adult rating (26.19 points). With its 27.05 AOP score, the Aircross narrowly crossed the threshold for 5 stars, placing it in the same league as safety leaders like the Tata Nexon and Skoda Kylaq, though its individual point score is slightly lower than those rivals.+1
Important Note: This 5-star rating specifically applies to the 5-seater variants manufactured from July 2025 onwards.
Citroën Basalt
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 26.19 out of 32 points (4 Stars)
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 35.90 out of 49 points (4 Stars)
- Overall Rating: 4 Stars
The Citroën Basalt was the first internal combustion engine (ICE) SUV coupe to be tested by Bharat NCAP (BNCAP). While its sibling, the C3 Aircross, managed a 5-star rating, the Basalt secured a very strong 4-star safety rating for both adult and child protection.
It fell just one point shy of the 5-star adult protection threshold, largely due to “Marginal” protection for the driver’s chest in the frontal impact test.
Honda Amaze (3rd Generation)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)
- Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): 28.33 out of 32 points (5 Stars)
- Child Occupant Protection (COP): 40.81 out of 49 points (4 Stars)
- Overall Rating: 5 Stars (Adult) / 4 Stars (Child)
The 3rd Generation Honda Amaze has achieved a top-tier 5-star safety rating for Adult Occupant Protection in the Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) crash tests, conducted in late 2025. This makes it the second compact sedan in India to earn a perfect 5-star adult rating, following the Maruti Suzuki Dzire.
The Amaze showed significant structural improvements over the previous generation, particularly in side-impact protection.
Cars With 3-Star and Below Ratings
Maruti Suzuki Baleno (2 Airbags)
The two-airbag version of the Baleno recorded a 3-star Bharat NCAP rating, with AOP around 24.1 and COP around 34.2. The comparison with the six-airbag version clearly shows how reduced airbag coverage significantly affects side impact and overall occupant protection, even when the base structure is similar.
This result serves as a clear example of how variant choice can materially affect safety performance, reinforcing the importance of checking which version was tested under Bharat NCAP.
Bharat NCAP Safety Ratings Summary Table
| Manufacturer | Car | Powertrain | Bharat NCAP Rating | Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) | Child Occupant Protection (COP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinfast | VF7 | EV | 5 stars | 28.54 / 32 | 45.25 / 49 |
| Vinfast | VF6 | EV | 5 Stars | 27.13 / 32 | 44.41 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Punch | ICE | 5 Stars | 30.58 / 32 | 45 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Altroz | ICE | 5 Stars | 29.47 / 32 | 43.82 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Curvv | ICE | 5 Stars | 30.25 / 32 | 44.80 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Curvv.ev | EV | 5 Stars | 30.12 / 32 | 45.12 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Harrier | Diesel | 5 Stars | 30.84 / 32 | 44.28 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Harrier | Petrol | 5 Stars | 30+ / 32 | 44+ / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Harrier.ev | EV | 5 Stars | 30.08 / 32 | 44.52 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Nexon | ICE | 5 Stars | 29.41 / 32 | 43.83 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Nexon.ev | EV | 5 Stars | 29.86 / 32 | 44.95 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Punch.ev | EV | 5 Stars | 30.17 / 32 | 45.00 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Safari | Diesel | 5 Stars | 30.84 / 32 | 44.28 / 49 |
| Tata Motors | Safari | Petrol | 5 Stars | 30+ / 32 | 44+ / 49 |
| Maruti Suzuki | Baleno | ICE (6 Airbags) | 4 Stars | 28.90 / 32 | 41.90 / 49 |
| Maruti Suzuki | Baleno | ICE (2 Airbags) | 3 Stars | 24.12 / 32 | 34.21 / 49 |
| Maruti Suzuki | Dzire | ICE | 5★ (Adult) / 4★ (Child) | 29.32 / 32 | 39.20 / 49 |
| Maruti Suzuki | e Vitara | EV | 5 Stars | 29.68 / 32 | 44.76 / 49 |
| Maruti Suzuki | Invicto | Hybrid | 5 Stars | 29.52 / 32 | 44.32 / 49 |
| Maruti Suzuki | Victoris | ICE | 5 Stars | 29.41 / 32 | 44.10 / 49 |
| Mahindra | BE 6 | EV | 5 Stars | 30.32 / 32 | 45.20 / 49 |
| Mahindra | Thar Roxx | ICE | 5 Stars | 29.86 / 32 | 44.12 / 49 |
| Mahindra | XEV 9e | EV | 5 Stars | 30.45 / 32 | 45.30 / 49 |
| Mahindra | XUV 3XO | ICE | 5 Stars | 30.28 / 32 | 44.60 / 49 |
| Mahindra | XUV400 EV | EV | 5 Stars | 30.12 / 32 | 45.00 / 49 |
| Citroën | Basalt | ICE | 4 Stars | 25.90 / 32 | 38.45 / 49 |
| Citroën | C3 Aircross | ICE | 4 Stars | 26.85 / 32 | 39.10 / 49 |
| Honda | Amaze (3rd Gen) | ICE | 4 Stars | 28.05 / 32 | 41.32 / 49 |
| Hyundai | Tucson | ICE | 5 Stars | 30.18 / 32 | 44.88 / 49 |
| Kia | Syros | ICE | 5 Stars | 29.90 / 32 | 44.40 / 49 |
| Skoda | Kylaq | ICE | 5 Stars | 30.26 / 32 | 45.10 / 49 |
| Toyota | Innova Hycross | Hybrid | 5 Stars | 30.14 / 32 | 45.02 / 49 |
Bharat NCAP Safety Ratings – Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bharat NCAP and how is it different from Global NCAP?
Bharat NCAP is India’s official car crash safety assessment programme. Unlike Global NCAP, which tests vehicles under international protocols, Bharat NCAP evaluates cars sold in India based on locally defined standards, equipment specifications, and test procedures. This makes Bharat NCAP ratings more directly relevant for Indian buyers, especially when it comes to standard safety features and variant-level equipment.
How often is the Bharat NCAP tested cars list updated?
The list is updated whenever a new vehicle completes official Bharat NCAP crash testing and its results are published. Manufacturers submit vehicles voluntarily, and new additions are made as results become available. Buyers should always check the “Last updated” date to ensure they are viewing the most recent version of the list.
What do Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and Child Occupant Protection (COP) scores mean?
AOP scores measure how well a vehicle protects the driver and front passenger in frontal offset and side impact crashes, with a maximum score of 32 points. COP scores evaluate protection for child occupants using crash test dummies, child restraint performance, and ISOFIX compatibility, with a maximum of 49 points. Higher scores indicate better injury protection and restraint effectiveness.
Is a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating always safer than a 4-star rating?
A 5-star rating generally indicates stronger crash protection, but buyers should also compare the actual scores. Some 4-star cars score very close to the 5-star threshold and may offer comparable real-world safety, especially if they have strong adult protection but slightly lower child occupant scores.
Why do some cars with similar platforms have different Bharat NCAP ratings?
Ratings can vary due to differences in:
– Standard safety equipment (airbags, ESC)
– Restraint system tuning
– Child seat compatibility
– Variant submitted for testing
Even small changes, such as the number of airbags, can significantly affect side impact and overall scores.
Does the Bharat NCAP rating apply to all variants of a car?
Not always. Bharat NCAP tests a specific variant, usually the one with standard safety equipment. Lower variants without the same safety features may not offer identical protection. Buyers should check whether the safety equipment of their chosen variant matches the tested specification.
Are electric vehicles safer than petrol or diesel cars in Bharat NCAP tests?
Bharat NCAP data so far shows that electric vehicles often match or exceed ICE vehicles in crash performance. Well-designed battery enclosures and reinforced floor structures can improve rigidity. However, safety depends on engineering quality, not the powertrain alone.
