Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Introduces Bharat New Car Assessment Program for Enhanced Vehicle Safety

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In a significant move towards enhancing road safety and empowering consumers with vital information, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP). This program, as per G.S.R. 698(E) dated 27th September 2023, introduces a voluntary safety assessment for passenger cars manufactured or imported in the country.

Key Features of the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP):

1. Applicability and Timeline:

• The BNCAP will be applicable to type-approved vehicles of category M1 (passenger cars).
• It applies to vehicles manufactured or imported on or after the 1st day of October 2023.

1. Voluntary Program Monitored by the Agency:
   • BNCAP is a voluntary program monitored by the designated agency appointed by the Central Government.
2. Application Submission:
   • Manufacturers or importers must submit an application in FORM 70A to the designated agency for the examination and assessment of their motor vehicles.
3. Cost and Assessment:
   • The cost of the motor vehicle for the purpose of assessment and the cost of the assessment itself will be borne by the respective manufacturer or importer.
4. Random Selection for Assessment:
   • The designated agency will randomly select motor vehicles for assessment from the premises of manufacturers, importers, or authorized dealers, following AIS-197 guidelines.
5. Testing Agency Selection:
   • The designated agency will select a testing agency, as per rule 126, for the assessment of selected vehicles.
6. Evaluation and Reporting:
   • The testing agency will evaluate the vehicles in accordance with AIS-197 and submit the assessment report to the designated agency in FORM 70B.
7. Star Rating Upload:
   • Upon approval of the assessment report, the star rating of the vehicle will be uploaded on the designated portal by the designated agency.
8. Exemptions:
   • The rule exempts vehicles under rule 126.

Program Benefits:

• Enhances safety standards for passenger cars.
• Empowers consumers with safety ratings for informed decisions.
• Boosts export worthiness of cars produced in the country.
• Encourages manufacturers to implement advanced safety technologies for higher ratings.

This pioneering program reinforces the government’s commitment to improving road safety standards and promoting transparency in the automotive industry.