Research that went into convincing UK insurers to reduce insurance premiums for cars fitted with leading edge collision avoidance technology, has turned Thatcham into a world leader in the development of test systems and qualifying procedures for Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).

The Berkshire-based organisation has also been able to propose test procedures to Euro NCAP, as the basis of enhanced star ratings to be introduced in 2014 to address car-to-car rear accidents and, in 2016, pedestrian injuries.

Thatcham is also acting as a consultant for insurance industry and NCAP organisations in the USA, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

Peter Shaw, chief executive, said: “Vehicle manufacturers don't want too many different tests; ideally, they would like one harmonised standard that is accepted worldwide.

"We understand this and this philosophy guided the research effort and our work with international agencies.”