Euro NCAP crash test

Only the Ford Transit Custom got 5 stars in the NCAP crash tests. Ford has recognised the need to for manufacturers to raise their game concerning the safety standards that apply to van derived people carriers

EURO NCAP has crash tested some of Europe’s best-selling 8 and 9 seaters MPV-style vans using protocols that are more true-to-life than the current legal tests for these van-based vehicles.

The safety organisation is calling on manufacturers to offer these vehicles with higher levels of safety equipment and for legislators to review the relatively lenient safety requirements that apply to them.

“By and large this is a neglected vehicle category that from a safety perspective is still immature. [Legally], these vehicles have never had to be well-equipped with safety technologies.”

In the tests, the Ford Transit Custom was the only vehicle to score five stars. The Hyundai H1 scored three star as did the Fiat Scudo while the Renault Trafic scored two stars.

Some of these vehicles are also rebadged and sold by other manufacturers. The Fiat Scudo is available as the Peugeot Expert and Citroën Jumpy. The Renault Trafic also sells as the Vauxhall/Opel Vivaro and Nissan Primastar.

Dr Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP, said, “This time around Euro NCAP has focused on van variants that offer 8 to 9 seats. These vehicles are often used for business as alternatives to large MPVs. Being derived from commercial van platforms, these people-carriers are updated less regularly and are generally less equipped for safety than  passenger cars.”

Got a spare 30 seconds?

 Help us to provide you with better market insight by completing a very short survey. It is anonymous and only takes 30 seconds. You will get free access to the quarterly results.

Thinking of the switch to electric?

Need help in finding the right electric vehicle for you? Compare driving range, battery capacity, charging time, price, and features to find the perfect EV for you.

logo