This autumn’s ruling on HGVs will have significant implications for safety, with HGVs involved in one in five deaths and serious injuries on UK roads.
In addition, standard-fit AEB systems are currently available on nearly 11% of new cars, and offered as an option on a further 18.5%. According to Euro NCAP and ANCAP, the independent safety bodies for Europe and Australasia, AEB is already leading to a 38% reduction in real-world rear-end crashes and proving to be the key to gaining the coveted NCAP 5 star safety rating.
In response, Thatcham said that whilst the impending EU legislation on HGVs is great news, the situation on LCVs is still a concern.
Peter Shaw, chief executive of Thatcham Research, said: “From a fleet of nearly 2.7 million LCVs on UK roads, we know of just two models with optional AEB available on the UK market: the Ford Transit Connect and the Ford Fiesta van both have Active City Stop, although others are being introduced towards the end of this year.
“EU legislators recognise the importance of mandating safety technology on the largest vehicles on our roads. The most responsible fleet buyers are starting to select AEB fitment on their cars. It’s now time to recognise that if you need any form of commercial vehicle for your business or service using publicly-funded roads, you have a duty of care to minimise death, injury or damage.”
