What is the difference between C-NCAP and C-IASI?
2 Answers
The differences between C-NCAP and C-IASI are as follows: 1. Different companies: C-NCAP stands for China New Car Assessment Program, which belongs to the China Automotive Technology and Research Center, established in 2006; C-IASI stands for China Insurance Automotive Safety Index, initiated by the China Insurance Association in March 2015. 2. Different standards: Both organizations were originally derived from the United States. C-NCAP is based on the testing standards of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA); C-IASI follows the testing rules of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), aiming to improve vehicle safety to reduce insurance compensation costs. 3. Different purposes: C-NCAP focuses on technical research; C-IASI serves major property insurance companies.
As an average driver who loves researching cars, I always check safety test ratings before buying a vehicle. C-NCAP is like a government-backed new car exam—comprehensive but often criticized for being too lenient. On the other hand, C-IASI (China Insurance Automotive Safety Index) is more practical, driven by insurers, with results directly impacting insurance costs. I’ve noticed its 25% small overlap crash test feels more realistic—some popular models flopped here, leading to high repair costs and premium hikes. The key difference lies in who’s behind them: C-NCAP aims to boost safety marketing, while C-IASI prioritizes cost savings. My advice? Check C-IASI reports when car shopping to avoid future expenses. Even mechanics highlight this gap, but both tests matter for ensuring road safety.
