The latest Indian crash test results from Global NCAP released yesterday in Delhi continue to disappoint with 5 car models rated as zero star.
The Renault Kwid, Maruti Suzuki Celerio, Maruti Suzuki Eeco, Mahindra Scorpio and Hyundai Eon all showed low levels of adult occupant protection.
The Renault Kwid was tested in three versions, including one with airbags, but each was rated as zero star for adult safety. Transportation safety has come under the scrutiny of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who’s pledged his government will introduce measures to reduce India’s average rate of one road death every four minutes. While Modi expressed his concerns in July, a draft road transport and safety bill has yet to be introduced to parliament.
Maruti Suzuki India’s Celerio and Eeco, Hyundai Motor’s Eon and Mahindra & Mahindra’s Scorpio models also scored zero stars, Global NCAP said in its statement. Representatives for the three companies didn’t immediately respond to emails seeking comment.
The Kwid, introduced in May 2015, was the only model in India’s minicar segment to post a sales gain last month. The model, which starts at 262,113 rupees (USD3,927), offers a driver side airbag as an option, according to Renault’s website.
Renault’s sales in India more than doubled last month on demand for the Kwid. The automaker, which is No. 3 in the market, sold 12,426 vehicles, a rise of 211%.
