Euro NCAP has given a 1-star rating for Bajaj’s Qute quadricycle. The vehicle has only scored about 28 per cent in adult occupant safety parameter.
The quadricycle Bajaj Qute gets a 217 cc single-cylinder water cooled engine. In terms of dimensions, it measures 2,752mm in length, 1,312mm in width and 1,650mm in height. Mated to 5-speed manual gearbox the vehicle is capable of attaining a top speed of 70 kmph while returning a fuel efficiency figure of 36kmpl.
During the front impact test, it was noted that chances of fatal or serious injury was high as the vehicle does not have frontal airbags and the head hits the steering wheel hard. The femur and knee protection is rated poor due to the presence of hard structures below the dashboard. Neck protection, however gets a good rating. The quadricycle is also deemed as unstable in event of a frontal crash. Spot welds were damaged and structure deformed, indicating that the vehicle will not withstand higher degree of loading.
The side impact test noted that the dummy’s head struck hard on the side roof railing. In the absence of side curtain airbag or padding in the area, there is a high probability of serious or fatal injury on the head. Chest protection was rated poor as the dummy readings of lateral rib compression were found to be high. Abdomen protection was marginal while pelvis protection was poor.
