BNCAP Introduces QR Code Labels For Vehicles Tested Under Its Protocols

In a move to enhance vehicular safety awareness among consumers, Bharat NCAP, India's crash safety assessment programme, has introduced QR code labels or stickers for vehicles tested under its rigorous crash safety protocols. These labels, which will be unique to each car assessed, represent a significant step forward in educating new car buyers about the safety credentials of the vehicles they are considering.

The concept of vehicular safety has gained significant traction in recent years, with more consumers becoming aware of the critical importance of both active and passive safety measures in vehicles. Institutions like Bharat NCAP and Global NCAP have played a crucial role in this shift by testing vehicles across various crash scenarios and publicising the results. Bharat NCAP's latest initiative to issue QR code labels aims to further this awareness, making it easier for consumers to access detailed safety information about specific car models directly at the point of purchase.

The QR code on these labels, when scanned, will direct users to the Bharat NCAP website, where they can find comprehensive details about the crash test procedures, results, and other pertinent information. This innovation not only provides transparency but also empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on the safety ratings of the vehicles they are considering.

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) whose vehicles have undergone Bharat NCAP testing can opt to have these labels attached to their cars. While it is unclear why any manufacturer would choose not to participate, the option exists. For vehicles without these labels, consumers can still access crash safety information through online portals and Bharat NCAP’s official website.

However, a potential area of concern is the permanence of these labels. There is some uncertainty about whether the labels are intended to be permanent fixtures on the vehicles. Ideally, the safety information should be accessible to buyers before the purchase decision, but the label itself may not need to remain on the car post-purchase.

As of now, only four vehicles have been tested by Bharat NCAP, with results available to the public. These vehicles include the Tata Harrier, Tata Safari, Tata Nexon.ev, and Tata Punch.ev. Notably, the Harrier and Safari share identical safety ratings, as they are built on the same underlying platform. Impressively, all these models have achieved a 5-star rating in both adult and child safety categories, reflecting the high standards of safety engineering in these vehicles.