Autocar India returns with its annual Young Driver contest, in association with Maruti Suzuki. And it’s a safety contest like none other. Simply strapping on the seatbelt won’t ensure smooth sailing here.
A comprehensive three-phase evaluation process across the country unveils ‘India’s best driver’. The first stage, an online test, comprises a series of questions to test contestants’ knowledge of traffic rules and driving etiquette. Successful contestants then participate in a driving test on Maruti’s simulators at its driving schools across the country. From here, the finalists will be selected to compete in the final stage of the evaluation in Delhi.
During this stage, there will be an actual driving test under the supervision of Maruti’s driving instructors and judges of Autocar India. Drivers will be evaluated on parameters such as smoothness, vehicle control and presence of mind during emergency situations. The driver with the ideal combination of skill and wits will be honoured as the Maruti Suzuki-Autocar Young Driver 2011. The winner will take home a Maruti Suzuki A-star.
In addition to a brand new set of wheels, the winner will receive a trophy and badge acknowledging him/her as ‘India’s safest driver’. Since 2009, this title has become a much sought after one for young automobile enthusiasts.
The year 2010 saw 20,400 tests being taken with the total registrations amounting to 6,689. With awareness levels on the rise, this number is slated to go upwards this year. Through this initiative, in its third year now, it is endeavored to make the roads a secure place and encourage a safe driving culture among road users in India. After all, the old cliché will always ring true - driving is a privilege, not a right.
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Viraaj Bhatnagar
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