The Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP) has rolled out a revised crash-testing protocol, effective from August 2025, that raises the bar for vehicle safety in developing markets. The new rules, which will remain in force until 2029, place a stronger emphasis on Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and side-impact protection.
ESC Becomes a Must for More Than 1 Star
Under the latest framework, any vehicle without standard ESC across all variants will automatically be capped at a 1-star safety rating, regardless of its crash test performance. This marks a sharp departure from the outgoing protocol, where ESC was only required for a 3-star rating or higher.
Previously, manufacturers had some leeway — ESC could be offered as standard on the top-selling variant or rolled out in equal numbers across other trims. Automakers were then given two years to make it standard across the full lineup and available as a standalone feature. That flexibility is now gone, making ESC a non-negotiable feature from the start.
Side-Impact Protection and Pedestrian Safety
The updated GNCAP rules also make side-impact head protection systems compulsory. Without them, a vehicle will not be eligible for the pole side-impact test and will be limited to a maximum of 2 stars.
Furthermore, all variants of a tested model must comply with international pedestrian protection standards (UN R127 or GTR9) to achieve more than a 2-star rating.
First Indian Car Rated Under New Rules
The recently tested Maruti Victoris became the first made-in-India car to undergo evaluation under the new protocol and successfully secured a 5-star safety rating, setting a strong benchmark for others to follow.
Building on 2022 Protocols
These changes build upon GNCAP’s 2022 updates, making the safety assessment programme more stringent and aligned with global standards. By prioritizing technologies like ESC and robust side-impact protection, the organisation aims to push automakers towards safer cars for all road users.
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