Hyundais Safety Challenge: Tucson Targeted for 5-Star BNCAP Rating

Hyundai Motors has willingly submitted three of its models for impact assessment to the recently established Indian vehicle safety testing organization, Bharat New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Following the Tucson, the Exter micro SUV is also expected to undergo similar testing. The results of these tests are slated for announcement in the coming few months.

The Tucson SUV is amongst the initial three Hyundai models to participate in the crash tests held by Bharat NCAP. It comes equipped with six airbags as a standard feature. The Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) is available with the top spec trim. The goal for the Hyundai Tucson at the BNCAP crash testing is to achieve a 5-star rating.

The current generation of Tucson already underwent crash tests with Euro NCAP and Latin NCAP in the years 2021 and 2022 respectively. With the testing protocols and scoring systems differing slightly between the two, Tucson secured 5 stars with Euro NCAP but only 3 stars with the stricter Latin NCAP.

Remarkably, the vehicle's body shell and footwell area were considered stable by both NCAPs given that the tested Tucson came with six standard airbags. Additionally, the car adhered to the pedestrian protection norms and fared well in the side pole impact test.

The Tucson also possesses an advanced safety assist system that includes autonomous emergency braking and lane assist functionalities. However, in the Latin NCAP testing, these safety assist scores did not influence the overall rating as the vehicle failed to meet the minimum fitment requirement.

The Tucson model in India includes six airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and seatbelt reminders for all individual seats as standard. Given these features, Hyundai aims for a maximum 5-star rating for its premier internal combustion engine-based vehicle in India.

The top spec Tucson also offers ADAS features, though Bharat NCAP, following Global NCAP protocols, is currently not considering these advanced safety assist systems for the overall rating. After the Tucson crash test, the Exter micro SUV is also expected to undergo similar testing. With an exception of ESC, the exter comes equipped with the same standard safety features as the Tucson and therefore, it is anticipated to perform well.

The Bharat NCAP testing protocols were scheduled to start from October 1. However, delay has occurred as manufacturers grapple with securing units for crash testing amidst supply constraints. Reports suggest that Bharat NCAP should begin its crash testing around mid-December, with the first test reports likely to be out by year-end or early next year. In the current times when vehicular safety has become a prime concern, securing good outcomes at the BNCAP crash tests for its popular models is crucial for Hyundai. Especially since it had never managed to secure over 3 stars under Global NCAP protocols, apart from the recently launched Verna which received a 5-star rating.

In conclusion, Hyundai is making strides in prioritizing vehicle safety by voluntarily submitting its models for crash testing. It's evident that the manufacturer has a particular focus on the Tucson and Exter models. The results of these tests are crucial for the brand and the overall automobile community, marking a significant step forward in propagating automotive safety.