Bharat NCAP Safety Rules Soon for E-Rickshaws

By Jony Shekhawat | Published Date : September 06, 2025

E-rickshaws in India to come under stricter safety norms to improve passenger and driver protection.

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has confirmed that e-rickshaws will soon have to meet safety rules similar to those under the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP). The move is being seen as a big step towards improving passenger and driver safety in a segment that has grown rapidly across India’s towns and cities.  For many smaller cities and towns, where e-rickshaws have become as visible as mini trucks, pickup vans and local buses, the change could prove significant.

E-Rickshaws Must Be Safer, Says Gadkari

Table Of Contents

1. E-Rickshaws Must Be Safer, Says Gadkari

2. What is Bharat NCAP?

3. Impact on Manufacturers

4. Safer Roads for All

5. When Will the Rules Be Applied?

6. Final Words

E-rickshaws have become a go-to transport option across India — they’re affordable, eco-friendly, and easily accessible, much like Tata trucks and buses are in the freight and passenger transport sector. But unlike larger vehicles, most e-rickshaws lack basic safety features like a strong chassis, seat belts, or crash protection — leaving both drivers and passengers vulnerable in case of an accident.

Gadkari stressed, “Why should only expensive cars be safe? Safety on roads is for everyone.”

What is Bharat NCAP?

Bharat NCAP is India’s official crash testing program that gives star ratings (1–5) to vehicles based on safety in accidents. Until now, it covered cars, but soon e-rickshaws too will be tested like passenger cars, trucks, and buses.

Impact on Manufacturers

The move will compel e-rickshaw manufacturers to upgrade their designs from sturdier body frames and reliable braking systems to safer seating and better passenger protection. While costs may rise, the government insists that saving lives matters more than price.

Gadkari assured, “We are not against industry, but safety cannot be compromised.”

Safer Roads for All

For drivers who run e-rickshaws daily, this is a big relief. Passengers, too, will get more secure rides, similar to improvements seen earlier in mini trucks, pickup vans, and Tata buses.

The step is also expected to boost confidence in electric mobility and encourage wider adoption.

When Will the Rules Be Applied?

The government will soon release detailed guidelines. Manufacturers may get 6–12 months to comply. Older e-rickshaws may face gradual upgrades, just like older truck and bus models did under new norms earlier.

Final Words

Gadkari’s announcement underlines India’s focus on building safer and cleaner transport systems. Extending Bharat NCAP-like rules to e-rickshaws sends out a clear signal — road safety cannot remain confined to cars, trucks or buses; it must also cover mini trucks, pickups and the e-rickshaws that millions depend on every day.

Also Read: Best Electric Auto Rickshaw in India: Mahindra Treo or Piaggio Ape E City?

---

Frequently Asked Questions on E-rickshaws

Q1. What is an e-rickshaw?

Ans. An e-rickshaw is a battery-powered three-wheeler used for short-distance passenger or goods transport, known for being eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Q2. Why are safety standards being introduced for e-rickshaws?

Ans. Many e-rickshaws lack basic safety features, increasing accident risks. The new standards aim to improve structural strength and passenger safety.

Q3. What is Bharat NCAP?

Ans. Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) is India’s vehicle crash testing system that rates vehicles based on their safety performance using star ratings.

Q4. Will the new safety rules apply to existing e-rickshaws?

Ans. Initially, the rules will apply to new e-rickshaws. The government may introduce separate guidelines for upgrading or phasing out older models.

Q5. How will this affect e-rickshaw manufacturers?

Ans. Manufacturers will need to redesign e-rickshaws with stronger frames, better brakes, and safer seating. They may receive a grace period of 6–12 months to comply.

---

Join us for the latest updates on the Truck Industry -

☞  Facebook 

☞  Instagram

☞  YouTube

☞  Twitter

☞  LinkedIn

☞  Threads

Join Our WhatsApp Channel