Van safety performance is improving according to Euro NCAP.
Currently, 40% of the vans tested under their Euro NCAP Commercial Van ratings have received the top Platinum rating.
These models have performed substantially better than the EU General Safety Regulation (GSR2) that came into effect on 1 July 2024.
The vans currently awarded a Platinum rating are Ford Transit Connect, Ford Transit Courier, Maxus eDeliver 5, Mercedes-Benz Vito, Nissan Interstar, Renault Master and the Volkswagen Caddy Cargo.
A total of 17 vans have been tested under the current regime, with all but one receiving either Platinum or Gold ratings. The only model to not meet that standard is the LEVC VN5.
Leading the way as the safest van according to the July 2024 Euro NCAP tests is the Ford Transit Courier with a total score of 93%. Second is the Mercedes-Benz Vito with 90%. Both models scored well thanks to their shared technologies in common with passenger cars.
Vans have seen a significant improvement in the availability of ADAS as manufacturers comply with new legislation.
Euro NCAP’s Commercial Van ratings are designed to test the effectiveness and performance beyond the required GSR2 levels.
“It is pleasing that vehicle manufacturers are responding to Euro NCAP’s tougher requirements and surpassing GSR2 standards, and we would urge fleet managers to consider Commercial Vans that have the Euro NCAP Platinum rating," said Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, secretary general Euro NCAP
"These are the vehicles which most significantly outperform GSR2 regulations and offer commercial fleets safer choices that prevent or mitigate the severity of crashes and protect company reputation and their drivers,” he added.
Euro NCAP began testing vans in December 2020, updating its testing protocols in 2023 with a greater emphasis on the fitment of ADAS technologies.
Euro NCAP will only test technologies that are available as standard from 2026.
