We had first disclosed the Indian government's plan of making dual front airbags mandatory earlier this month [READ] and now, the deadline for implementation of this new rule is out as well. The dates are different for current cars produced in India and those that will be launched all-new.
All new car models that will be launched in India from 1st April onwards will need to have dual front Airbags as standard. Currently, the norms only require ABS (anti-lock braking system) and a driver side Airbag as standard. However, we are glad that the co-driver or passenger's safety is also (now) being considered important by the Indian government. For cars that are currently on sale in India, the rule for making dual front Airbags mandatory will come into effect from 1st June 2021.
Do note that most cars upwards of about Rs 6-8 lakh as it is come with dual front Airbags as standard so the new rule will not impact their costing. However, cheaper cars like entry level hatchbacks or more affordable people movers will see a price hike ranging from Rs 10-20k depending on the costs involved to fit a co-driver Airbag. The requirement for such Airbags will be as per AIS 145, under the Bureau of Indian Standards act, 2016. All in all, with crash test norms in place and aids like ABS and dual Airbags as standard, fatalities involved during major impacts will come down drastically in the years to come.
Do note that current car owners need not worry about this new rule as the same will only be applicable to brand new cars that are sold off the showroom floors. We at 91Wheels welcome this decision - what about you? Share your opinions in our exclusive 91Wheels Telegram Group.
