“6-airbags not mandatory” – A U-turn on airbag rule!

Car safety is slowly gaining a lot of popularity in the Indian market. The government is actively trying to improve the safety standards in the country. Last month, the government launched the BNCAP. Next up everyone had thought the 6-airbags rule would become mandatory. However, that is not happening according to a recent statement from Nitin Gadkari. In today’s article, let’s talk about the 6-airbag rule. 

6-airbags

Last year, the Government proposed that it would make 6-airbags mandatory for all passenger vehicles. After some opposition, the plan was pushed back a year. The 6-airbags rule was expected to come into effect from 1st October 2023. However, Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport & Highways, stated that the plan to make the 6-airbags standard has been shelved for now. 

6 airbag rule – Reasons

Nitin Gadkari stated that one of the reasons for doing so is the introduction of BNCAP. According to BNCAP protocols, six airbags are needed for a higher rating. So it will automatically push OEMs to offer. Also, manufacturers, which give 6 airbags will gain in market share, while those that won’t offer it will face problems as far as sales are concerned. 

Most manufacturers have already started making 6-airbags standard, but Maruti, which has a significant percentage of small cars, has been opposing this idea. Adding 6-airbags in affordable cars will substantially shoot up prices affecting the sales. As per government estimates, the cost of adding four airbags will be 75 USD (6k INR). However, private researchers have estimated the cost to touch (19k INR). This could shoot up the price considerably in the affordable segment. This is why Maruti doesn’t want the 6-airbags rule to become mandatory. 

What are your thoughts about the government not making 6-airbags mandatory? Do let us know in the comments. 

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