GNCAP Test Results Show Poor Safety On African Cars Compared To European Ones

Global NCAP testing has become a well-recognized and trustworthy measure of vehicle safety in the industry. The test result of the organisation, therefore, has a big impact on the success of car models. Getting a high score at the GNCAP test can positively enhance the brand image of a car model in the car buyers’ eyes, thereby, attracting higher sales outcome. Recently, Mahindra XUV300 and Tata Altroz received a warm reception from the buyers owing to gaining a full star rating at the safety assessment test.

Crash Testing a 2019 Nissan NP300 Hardbody and a 2015 (used) Nissan Navara NP300

Previously, the safety assessing program has run some tests on two models from the European and African market. The two models involved in the test are the Africa-spec 2019 Nissan NP300 Hardbody and a used 2015 Navara NP300 manufactured in Europe. Even though the two vehicles are virtually the same product, they illustrate different levels of safety with the win landing on the Navara’s side.

Also Read: Tata Nexon Lands Upside Down After Falling From a Flyover, All Occupants Safe

The test result indicates fatal damage for the driver of the Africa-spec model during the frontal impact test. On the other hand, the Europe-spec car driver would remain safe after the crash. It comes as a surprise since the Africa-spec NP300 is a recent model while the European NP300 was dated back in 2015. It is worth noticing that the Nissan Navara NP300 is well-equipped with various features including collision avoidance system and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). These features, however, are completely absent on the newer Africa-spec Nissan NP300 Hardbody. Commenting on the test result, David Ward, the CEO and President of Global NCAP, said that the test “uniquely illustrates the double standard in vehicle safety performance between models sold in Europe and those sold in Africa.”

Nissan Navara NP300 shows better safety in comparison to its newer African siblings

Back in 2018, GNCAP had carried out testing for the Nissan NP300 as a part of the Safe Car for Africa campaign. After the crash, the vehicles’ structure is severely affected, proving to be unstable. The car received a distressing zero-star safety rating. The recent testing has further illustrated its poor safety in comparison with the Euro-spec Nissan Navara NP300.

Also Read: Mahindra XUV300 vs Tata Nexon Safety Rating comparison

 Willem Groenewald is the Chief Executive Officer of the Automobile Association shows a deep concern with the test result, saying the new testing has shown “a major deficiency in the quality of vehicles available in Africa.” He continues saying that the test has somewhat confirmed their long worry about the passenger safety of the African models compared to other counterparts from the European and Asian market.