Two More Indian Car Models Flunk NCAP Crash Test

Nissan Motor Co.'s Datsun Go and Maruti Suzuki India's Swift small cars are strong sellers in India. Both meet local Indian safety standards.

But the two models also are the latest to flunk 40 mph crash tests conducted by the Global New Car Assessment Program, a U.K.-based group that promotes development of safety standards in emerging markets. Cars sold in more developed markets meet NCAP standards.

The Go and Swift received zero-star ratings. Both had body structures NCAP describes as "unstable." The organization says the Go's structure is so weak as to make airbags pointless. The Swift performed only marginally better.

NCAP says the safety of both cars would be dramatically improved if they met United Nations standards for front and side impacts.

Indian-made cars that received zero-star ratings after similar NCAP tests in January include the Maruti Alto 800, Ford Figo, Hyundai i10, Tata Nano and Volkswagen Polo. NCAP notes that VW subsequently decided to make two airbags standard in the Polo, which then earned a four-star crash rating.

NCAP says Indian consumers are not aware of the potential safety shortcomings of locally marketed vehicles. India has agreed to take the first steps toward developing its own NCAP program. But the country is years away from approaching safety performance standards akin to those in more developed markets.