The latest Indian crash test results from Global NCAP are out, and all five models, including Renault Kwid, Maruti Suzuki Celerio, Maruti Suzuki Eeco, Mahindra Scorpio and Hyundai Eon have been rated as zero star, showing low levels of adult occupant protection.
Renault Kwid, which was tested in three versions, but not even one could go beyond zero stars for adult safety. All four versions of Kwid have been produced with different safety features; while three of them have failed the test, the fourth is yet to be tested by Global NCAP.
"The latest SaferCarsforIndia results show how important it is for cars to have a body shell that can remain stable in a crash. This is an absolutely crucial pre-requisite for occupant safety together with fitment at least of front air bags. It is very surprising that a manufacturer like Renault introduced the Kwid initially lacking this essential feature. 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," said David Ward, Secretary General of Global NCAPsaid.
"We welcome Renault's efforts to correct this and we look forward to testing another improved version with airbags. Renault has a strong record of achievement in safety in Europe and it should offer the same commitment to its customers in India," he added.
"Global NCAP also welcomes the forthcoming launch of a Bharat New Car Assessment Programme which can help build a market for safer cars in India," he concluded.
Renault Kwid’s standard version without airbags scored zero stars, the structure in the passenger compartment and the lack of airbags explained the poor result.
Mahindra Scorpio, on the other hand, failed because of collapse of the structure combined with the lack of airbags.
The non-airbag Maruti Suzuki Eeco too failed because of collapse of the structure in the passenger compartment and the lack of airbags.
Hyundai Eon offers no airbags in the standard version, and scored zero stars because of unstable structure in the passenger compartment and the lack of airbags.
The non airbag Maruti Suzuki Celerio failed because of lack of airbags and high values recorded in the 3-year old child dummy placed during the test.
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