Tata Zest with dual airbags gets 4 stars in Global NCAP.
As a part of the SaferCarsForIndia progema, Global NCAP has crash tested the Tata Zest. The company tested two versions of the compact sedan, entry variant without airbags and top model with airbags.
The standard non-airbag version resulted in a disappointing zero star score for adult occupant protection and one star for child occupant protection.
Global NCAP offered Tata the opportunity to test another version of the car with more safety features. Tata introduced a structural improvement to the entire Zest range while Global NCAP tested the new version with optional airbags.
The Zest with two airbags and two pretensioners showed very substantial improvements and, together with the seat belt reminder in the driver seat, the Zest achieved an impressive four star score in adult occupant protection. Tata also selected other child restraint systems for the airbag version, improving the rear seat child occupant protection to 2 stars.
Tata have announced that the improvements made to the structure will be brought to the entire vehicle range, for both airbag and non-airbag versions.
All Indian cars without airbags have failed the test and cars have shown maximum structural damage. Cars with airbags tend to show better results and are safer.
We can expect Tata Motors to offer airbags as standard airbags across the Zest range which could help to improve the image further in turn boosting sales.
