Get ‘zero star’ rating
Maruti Celerio, Maruti Eeco, Renault Kwid, Mahindra Scorpio and Hyundai Eon failed crash tests with “zero star” rating
The UK-based vehicle safety group Global NCAP testedvehicles at a speed of 64 kmph
Experts question test at 64 kmph, not 56 kmph
In Europe and the US, which have the most advanced safety standards, the frontal offset regulation is to test vehicles at 56 kmph. There’s no scientific reason whatsoever of testing cars at64 kmph and then failing them. — Industry experts

New Delhi, May 17

Five popular car models in India, including Maruti Celerio, Renault Kwid, Mahindra Scorpio and Hyundai Eon, failed crash tests with “zero star” rating by vehicle safety group Global NCAP.

The UK-based group tested five models, including Maruti Suzuki’s van Eeco, sold in India and found that the vehicles “showed low levels of adult occupant protection”.

“The latest Indian crash test results from Global NCAP released today in Delhi continue to disappoint with all five models rated as zero star,” Global NCAP said.

Global NCAP Secretary General David Ward said the latest results showed how important it was for cars to have a body shell that could remain stable in a crash. Renault’s Kwid was tested in three versions, including one with airbags, but each was rated as zero star for adult safety.

Car makers must ensure that their new models pass the UN’s minimum crash test regulations, and support the use of airbags, he said.

Renault India Operations Country CEO Sumit Sawhney said the Indian Government has announced that the crash test regulation for existing cars will come into effect in 2019 and for the new cars in 2017. “Renault is committed to comply with these timelines.” While Maruti declined to comment, comments from Hyundai and Mahindra could not be immediately obtained. — PTI (Courtesy THE TRIBUNE,18 MAY)