Euro NCAP Revolutionizes LCV Safety Ratings
Euro NCAP, the renowned vehicle safety and crash testing organization, has announced a significant change in how it reports the safety performance of light commercial vehicles (LCVs). The new system aims to help fleets make better-informed decisions when selecting vehicles for their operations.
Introducing Star Ratings for LCVs
The organization is transitioning from a medal-based system to a more intuitive five-star grading system for LCVs. This change mirrors the well-established rating system used for cars, although it’s crucial to note that the safety tests for cars and vans differ, making their star ratings non-comparable. The new star ratings will highlight which LCVs are equipped with the most effective active safety systems.
Enhanced Safety Features in Modern Vans
Euro NCAP emphasizes that effective Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in LCVs are akin to having a “full-time co-driver” that scans the road ahead for potential dangers and can react on behalf of the driver. While light commercial vehicles do not have a higher collision rate than cars, their greater weight means that crashes involving vans tend to be more severe for other parties involved.
Five-Star LCVs of 2024
In 2024, Euro NCAP re-assessed vans using the new star rating system. The LCVs that achieved the highest five-star rating include:
- Citroën Jumper (Relay)
- Farizon SV
- FIAT Ducato
- Ford Transit
- Ford Transit Connect
- Ford Transit Courier
- Ford Transit Custom
- Maxus eDELIVER 5
- Mercedes-Benz Citan
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
- Mercedes-Benz Vito
- Nissan Interstar
- Opel/Vauxhall Movano
- Peugeot Boxer
- Renault Kangoo
- Renault Master
- Volkswagen Caddy Cargo
- Volkswagen ID.Buzz Cargo
- Volkswagen Transporter
Improvement in Van Safety Features
The safety features in vans have shown significant improvement in recent years. In 2021, when Euro NCAP began testing ADAS technologies in vans, only four out of 18 vans scored above 40%. In the most recent tests, 17 out of 18 vans exceeded 60%, despite stricter testing criteria.
Impact on Fleet Procurement and CSR
Dr. Aled Williams, Programme Director at Euro NCAP, stated, “With the growing number of vans on Europe’s roads and their disproportionately high mileage compared to passenger cars, it’s crucial that Euro NCAP helps businesses choose the safest vans for their fleet while encouraging van manufacturers to fit ADAS technologies as standard.” He added that more organizations with LCV fleets are incorporating Euro NCAP’s five-star rating into their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategies.
“By introducing our familiar and proven star ratings for LCVs, we’re making it simpler for fleet operators and small business owners to make informed purchasing decisions and pick the safest vans for themselves or their colleagues, at a time when there’s growing choice in the market,” Dr. Williams explained.
The introduction of star ratings for LCVs marks a significant step forward in vehicle safety, providing fleet operators with clearer guidance on the safety performance of their vehicles.
