Advanced safety rating is unveiled

Euro NCAP’s new Advanced rating system, unveiled at the eSafetyAware Challenge 2010, will give fleets an insight into the benefits of the latest safety technologies.

The safety ratings organisation says its new initiative “rewards manufacturers” for investing in technology that, initially at least, will be available only on premium models or as a high-cost option.

Products already submitted for consideration include smart restraints, eCall technology and advanced driving assistance systems.

Michiel Van Ratinger, secretary general of Euro NCAP, believes Advanced will encourage manufacturers t o accelerate the roll out of such equipment across their entire model ranges.

“When we have lots of manufacturers coming to us with the same type of technology, for instance lane departure and speed alerts, then we can create common methodology and include it in future star ratings,” he said.

The system is based on scientific measurements provided by the manufacturers. They will need to show that their technology is addressing a real safety concern. Independent experts will look at the data and make the decision.

However, while the Advanced system will interest fleets with a particular focus on safety, only those with deep pockets will be able to fund the additional expense of these costly options.

Advice from the pricing guides suggests that safety technology does not increase the residual value of a car. This means higher wholelife costs and, therefore, higher leasing rates for the early adopters.

So far, 12 systems have been submitted from 11 manufacturers. The first ‘rewards’ will be awarded at the Paris Motor Show in late September.

They will be published on the Euro NCVAP website and manufacturers will be able to use the information in their marketing campaigns.

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