Hyundai, Renault, Suzuki all get zero NCAP scores in Indian tests

Renault’s new Kwid, the Maruti Suzuki Celerio and Exco models, plus the Hyundai Eon have all been given zero out of a possible five stars for adult protection in Indian NCAP tests.

All the models tested fell well short of similar models available in Europe and Australia, which NCAP says highlights how car-makers are cutting costs to the detriment of safety in emerging markets.

Only the Renault Kwid with an optional single airbag scored one star in the strict crash tests -- but zero without it in the Indian tests.

With a death toll of around 135,000 a year in India, safety organisation NCAP has called for legislation to ensure a minimum level of occupant protection.

Speaking following the tests, David Ward from NCAP said: “Global NCAP strongly believes that no manufacturer anywhere in the world should be developing new models that are so clearly sub-standard. Car makers must ensure that their new models pass the UN's minimum crash test regulations, and support use of an airbag.”

Ward remarked that it was “very surprising” that the Renault lacked the standard fitment of an airbag. In Europe the French car-maker has and continues to claim it is the manufacturer of some of the safest vehicles on sale.

In India airbags are not required by law and none of the models tested come with the life-saving feature as standard.

Surprisingly, in the same tests carried out on European-sourced cars, the Celerio scored three stars for occupant safety, while Renault’s most basic Twingo model was awarded a respectable four stars for adult protection.

Following the tests Renault India has announced it is already working on safer models of the Kwid.

New mandatory crash tests are on the way in India with front and side impact tests set to be introduced in 2017. The Indian government is also planning to introduce a stricter new test regime that goes far further than simple crash tests.

NCAP, meanwhile, will continue to lobby for legislation to force car-makers that sell vehicles in India to fit airbags and ABS brakes standard on all models, although it’s expected to be an uphill struggle in a market where even seat belts remain on the options list for some cars.