Euro NCAP marks a major milestone this year as it celebrates its 20th anniversary
If you are thinking of buying a car be sure to find out about the car’s Euro NCAP rating writes Geraldine Herbert
So what is Euro NCAP?
Euro NCAP is the independent body in Europe behind new car crash safety. The European New Car Assessment Programme gives consumers information on the level of occupant protection provided by vehicles in a range of front and side crashes. New cars are assessed in four areas; Adult protection (for the driver and passenger); Child protection; Pedestrian protection and Safety Assist technologies.
How are cars tested?
There are several tests conducted on each car and they are designed to reflect real-world accidents as much as possible.
- Frontal impact
- Car-to-car-side impact
- Pole side impact
- Pedestrian protection
- Child protection systems
- Whiplash
- Speed assistance systems and seatbelt reminders
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Electronic Stability Control
The overall score is then translated into a star rating of between 1 to 5 stars indicating the level of safety they provide in the event of a crash.
What is the new dual rating system?
From last year a new dual rating system was introduced. One rating is based on a car fitted only with safety equipment which is standard on every variant in the model range and a second rating is based on a car with an additional ‘safety pack’, that may be offered as an add-on option to consumers
Watch the video below of the Euro NCAP crash testing an old Rover 100 and a recent Honda Jazz (
All safety ratings and crash test results are online.
So how safe is your car? Check out more at www.euroncap.com/en
Geraldine Herbert
29th March, 2017
