- India aims to become the world's largest automaker, rising from third place globally
- Bharat NCAP 2.0 vehicle safety framework to launch in October 2027 in India
- Bharat NCAP offers safety testing at 75% lower cost than international alternatives
Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said on Thursday, Sept. 3 that India's road safety record remains highly problematic, currently ranking number one globally in road accidents, while also announcing that the government is preparing to roll out a more stringent vehicle safety framework, Bharat NCAP 2.0, starting in October 2027.
Addressing the 66th SIAM Annual Convention 2025, Gadkari added India is firmly on the path to becoming the world's largest automaker, stepping up from its current position as the third-largest globally. To support this expansion and address the critical safety concerns, the government is preparing to introduce the Bharat NCAP 2.0 scheme.
Highlighting the success of India's indigenous crash-testing program, Gadkari noted its growing global appeal. Owing to a highly cost-effective structure, Bharat NCAP offers testing at a 75% lower cost compared to international alternatives. This massive price advantage has led many foreign automobile companies to send their vehicles to India specifically for safety testing and certification. Despite the booming automotive market, Gadkari did not shy away from the country's grim realities on the road.
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Gadkari stressed that the upcoming Bharat NCAP 2.0 program will fundamentally shift how vehicle safety is assessed. While the current regime focuses heavily on the standard crashworthiness, the 2027 update will evaluate the entire chain of a vehicle crash. Gadkari emphasized that the passive safety measures are no longer enough.
The new protocols will mandate a comprehensive approach, prioritizing pedestrian protection, the active crash prevention technologies, and crucial post-crash care mechanisms. By integrating these advanced parameters, the government hopes to transform India from not just a global manufacturing powerhouse, but also a leader in pioneering affordable, world-class vehicle safety standards.
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Launched in 2013, Bharat NCAP (Bharat New Car Assessment Program) is India's official, independent vehicle safety rating system that crash-tests passenger cars and assigns them a star rating from 1 to 5 stars. It evaluates how well cars protect adult and child occupants during collisions. To improve road safety, Gadkari said the government is also working on a mechanism where people breaking safety rules may get their driving licences cancelled, while responsible driving will get incentives.
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