The Most Unsafe Cars in the Indian Market: Insights and Analysis
The Indian automotive market is vast and diverse, with a wide range of vehicles catering to various segments. However, some of these vehicles fall short in terms of safety, earning the dubious distinction of being among the most unsafe options available in the market. This article delves into the safety concerns faced by certain models, highlighting specific instances and factors that contribute to their hazardous quality.
Maruti Eeco: A Case of Poor Safety Standards
The Maruti Eeco stands out as one of the most unsafe cars in the Indian market. Although it is known for its affordability and spacious interior, the Eeco has found itself at the bottom of safety tests. In a 2016 crash test, it received only 0 stars for adult occupant protection and 2 stars for child occupant safety. The Eeco is a practical, 5-seater mini-van powered by a 1.2-liter 4-cylinder NA petrol engine, commonly used for daily commuting. Its price starts at INR 5.32 lakh ex-showroom. Despite its inherent safety issues, the Eeco continues to be a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers in India.
Maruti's Safety Concerns
Much like the Eeco, several other Maruti models fall into the 4-lakh price range, scoring up to 2 stars in Global NCAP crash tests. Notably, the Maruti Alto and Maruti S Presso have garnered the lowest safety ratings. These models, while popular, pose significant safety risks, especially in real-world scenarios where driver behavior can exacerbate these issues.
It is worth noting that any car, regardless of its brand or rating, can become dangerous when driven recklessly. A tragic incident in Cyberabad, where a 37-year-old man lost his life due to a hit-and-run caused by two friends driving an Audi under the influence of alcohol, underlines the risks posed by irresponsible driving. Such accidents often involve multiple factors, including poor handling and substandard crash safety features.
Broader Safety Concerns in the Indian Car Market
While Eeco and other Maruti models are significant in terms of safety issues, it is essential to recognize that many other brands in the Indian market face similar challenges. Suzuki, in particular, has received poor crash ratings despite having better handling and noise vibration harshness (NVH) compared to Tata and Mahindra. This highlights the need for consumers to consider all aspects of a car, including safety, when making purchasing decisions.
In many cases, even cars with high crash safety ratings can still pose substantial risks if driven unsafely. The lack of advanced safety features like Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) and Electronic Stability Programs (ESP) significantly increases the danger posed by these vehicles. For instance, any car that does not have ABS and ESP is more likely to be involved in accidents.
Personal Experiences and Observations
Based on personal observations and experiences, the most dangerous models in the Indian market can be attributed to certain brands. Maruti, in particular, has been noted for its risky driving behavior among its users. Drivers of Maruti cars, especially the Swift, have exhibited a pattern of reckless driving, including jumping red lights, dangerous overtaking maneuvers, and aggressive driving practices.
A particularly jarring incident involved a Maruti Swift that was hit by a truck, leading to multiple accidents. This tragic event underscores the vulnerability of the Swift design and the critical importance of driver behavior in ensuring road safety. The low quality and poor handling of these vehicles, combined with negligent driving, have contributed to their designation as some of the most unsafe cars on the Indian roads.
Conclusion
The Indian car market is rich with options, but not all vehicles are created equal in terms of safety. Cars like the Maruti Eeco and other Maruti models in the 4-lakh price range, along with certain other brands, stand out as particularly hazardous. Consumer awareness and responsible driving practices are critical in mitigating the risks associated with these vehicles. While the responsibility ultimately lies with the driver, car manufacturers also play a significant role in ensuring that their vehicles meet the highest safety standards.
By focusing on safety features and promoting responsible driving behaviors, the Indian automotive industry can work towards reducing the number of unsafe cars on the road and, most importantly, saving lives.