Latest-gen driver-assistance systems are keeping businesses on the road and repair costs to a minimum, according to research from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
A OnePoll survey of 1,000 UK van drivers found almost half (45%) said advanced driver-assistance technology (ADAS) had prevented at least one accident in the last year.
The research revealed that parking and reversing incidents were among the most common for UK van drivers, with parking representing 27% of all accidents, and 18% for reversing, respectively.
The survey also found that the average cost of van repairs is on the rise, now as much as £534.25, up from £525.63 the year before.
At a time when UK van drivers are already feeling the squeeze – with almost half (48%) of respondents citing the cost of running a business as a major concern – these rising costs underscore the significant impact that an even a minor accident can bring.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a range of driver-assistance systems to help van drivers avoid accidents and costly repairs.
Its Park Assist technology helps to minimise the risk of bumps and scrapes when parking, while an optional rear-view camera helps drivers to navigate as they reverse.
Additionally, Brake Assist technology – which comes as standard on Volkswagen’s range of vans – substantially shortens a vehicle’s stopping distance in emergency situations, by detecting traffic and applying the brakes if needed.
Alice Axtell, product marketing manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “With repair costs on the rise, the impact that accidents can have on the day-to-day running of a business is significant. This is why our vehicles are equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance technology, many as standard, to help drivers avoid incidents that can put their van out of action and help keep business running smoothly.”
