The Global NCAP has the conducted safer cars for India crash test which includes testing the top-spec Renaut Kwid and two versions of the Honda Mobilio – Base variant without airbag and another with dual airbags. Earlier this year, the Global NCAP had given a zero stars rating for adult protection and two stars for child occupant protection in the standard Kwid variant which is offered without an airbag. However, the latest one tested is a top-spec model featuring just the driver airbag, thereby disappointing the Global NCAP with one star rating.
The base version of Honda Mobilio does not get an airbag thereby scoring a zero in adult occupant protection. On the other hand, the dual airbags version which was tested scored three stars for adult occupant protection. Speaking about the tests, David Ward, Secretary General of Global NCAP said, “Renault has made limited progress, they should be offering their one star car as the standard version not an option. Honda too have shown that with two airbags they can achieve 3 stars. These safety systems should not be options. Renault and Honda make safe cars in other markets, they have the knowhow to make all their Indian cars much safer. We expect them to start doing so now.”
Adding to it, Rohit Baluja, President of the Institute of Road Traffic Education said that the safety aspect in India is often overlooked and is not a priority yet. The customers lack awareness on the same and are unaware of consequences during high speed crashes. He also emphasised that automakers should not sell enhanced safety features as an option, but should indeed be offered as standard.
