Global NCAP has tested two versions of the Indian-spec Tata Zest – known in South Africa as the Tata Bolt sedan – with the first scoring zero stars and the second improving to four stars.
The standard version without airbags failed to score a single star for adult occupant protection, and mustered just one for child occupant protection.
As has been the case with other manufacturers, Global NCAP offered the Indian brand the opportunity to supply a second version of the vehicle for testing, with added safety features. Accepting the opportunity, Tata made some structural improvements and added the option of airbags.
The subsequent model with two airbags and two seatbelt pretensioners showed what Global NCAP describes as a “substantial improvement”, taking its rating to four stars for adult occupancy. Tata also selected different child restraint systems for the airbag-equipped version, improving its rear seat child occupant protection rating to two stars.
“Tata has shown how they can dramatically improve the safety of the Zest. It is encouraging to see a major Indian brand improving the safety of their models,” said David Ward, secretary general of Global NCAP.
“We strongly encourage Indian consumers to opt for the much safer four-star-rated option. We also urge Tata to consider making the two airbag version of the Zest their basic model,” he added.
In South Africa, both derivatives in the Tata Bolt sedan range comes standard with ABS with EBD, as well as dual front airbags.
Watch the two crash-test videos below…
