Citroën eC3, an electric vehicle (EV) manufactured in India, recently underwent crash tests conducted by the Global NCAP, yielding concerning results. The eC3 received zero stars for adult safety and only one star for child safety. This test was part of the Global NCAP's #safercarsforIndia campaign, coinciding with the full functionality of Bharat NCAP starting this year.
Safety Features and Test Results
Equipped with dual front airbags, seat belt load limiters, and seat belt reminders for the front occupants, the eC3 scored 20.86 out of 34 points for adult safety and 10.55 out of 49 points for child safety. While it provided good protection for the front occupant's head and neck, the driver's chest protection was deemed weak, and the passenger's chest protection was poor. The driver's knee had marginal protection due to hazardous structures behind the fascia, whereas knee protection was satisfactory for the passenger. However, the footwell area was rated as unstable.
Structural Integrity and Impact Tests
Despite concerns about specific safety aspects, the body shell of the eC3 was considered stable and capable of withstanding additional loads. However, side impact tests revealed marginal overall protection and a notable discrepancy in protection levels between front and side impacts, resulting in a one-star deduction in the final rating. The side pole impact test was not conducted due to the absence of side airbags. Additionally, the eC3 lacked Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard, and its seat belt reminder did not meet the Global NCAP requirements.
Manufacturer's Response and Future Safety Commitments
In response to the test results, Stellantis, the parent company of Citroën, stated, "Stellantis confirms its vehicles comply with all current local market regulations and its commitment to safety with six airbags and additional safety features as standard across products in India during the second half of the year." This statement suggests that Citroën is committed to enhancing safety features in its vehicles to meet or exceed global standards in the future.