5-star safety rating, connected cars: what it is and what it means for users – Times of India

Tata Motors Recently announced that its upcoming SUV Tata Punch Received 5-Star Rating for Adult Occupant Protection and 4-Star Rating for Child Occupant Protection from Global NCAP (New Car Assessment Program). Unveiled earlier this month, the Tata Punch is scheduled to launch on October 18 and will be a part of the mini/micro SUV segment. It is likely to be priced between Rs 5.5 lakh and Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). Tata Punch is the third car from the company after Altroz ​​and Nexon to receive a 5-star rating for adult safety from Global NCAP. In addition to security, connected cars The latest is the buzz among car makers. Almost every other brand is integrating more and more technology to make cars smarter, safer and better. We explain what a 5-star safety rating means, what connected cars can do, and more.
How are security tests done?
First, the manufacturer reaches out to Global NCAP with a request to submit a model for voluntary testing. For testing, there is an independent selection of vehicles at the plant or at a dealership. Thereafter, the vehicle is sent to the laboratory where various crash tests are conducted for detailed technical inspection.
What is Global NCAP
For those unaware, Global NCAP Towards Zero, a UK-based charity working internationally to support the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety, with the goal of preventing road deaths and serious injuries by 2030 The Foundation has a program. In 2014, Global NCAP launched the Safer Cars For India campaign with an aim to promote safer vehicles in the country. Between 2014 and 2021 the program has completed more than forty-five safety assessments.
What does this mean for users
Let’s be clear that this is not a mandatory security assessment. This is something that automakers do to enhance the roadworthiness or safety of their new products. So the car is ‘safe’ to talk about but as we said it does not come under any mandatory safety norms. This is a good M. Is
safety features in cars
Let’s take the example of the Tata Punch – since it has got a 5-star rating – which comes with two airbags, ABS brakes and ISOFIX anchorage. The model can be further enhanced by equipping it with a standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Side Head Impact Protection system as standard and 3 point belts in all seating positions. Now, these are rather “standard” features that most car manufacturers include depending on the segment in which the car is launched.
Connected Car Security Features:
Connected cars are still exploring the early waters in India. For example, Tata Nexon uses IRA technology in models like Altroz ​​and Punch. On Tata Punch, it comes as an additional package which is available only on the top Creative variant. The technology allows you to access and control various functions of the car through your smartphone. It also allows you to set a geo-fence perimeter to track your car’s live location and receive notifications on violations. For example, if someone tries to steal your car, you’ll get an alert on your smartphone right away. The app also notifies you when someone tries to break into your car.
The package also allows you to control and monitor things like lock and unlock functions, turning the headlights on and off through the app.
Here too, Tata is not the first or only brand to do so. Hyundai uses something called the Blue Link, which has over 30 features, including the ability to lock/unlock the car. Or Kia Motors has Uvo Connect, which can be integrated with users’ smartphones and smartwatches. Kia also offers functions like live car tracking, auto collision notification.

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