18 Jun 2012

Reaching for the stars - vehicle safety requirements rise for 2017

Australasia's independent and authoritative source for vehicle safety information, the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), has today released its vehicle safety rating requirements for 2017.

ANCAP’s forward-looking Rating Road Map was initially launched in 2011 following extensive consultation with stakeholders, and the motor vehicle industry through the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, and the New Zealand Motor Industry Association. The Road Map outlines the safety requirements for the forthcoming five-year period, thus encouraging the early adoption of vehicle safety features into manufacturers' production processes.

With an undertaking to extend the Road Map annually, the requirements for 2017 have now been developed placing increased pressure on 1, 2 and 3 star rated vehicles in order to encourage manufacturers to increase safety for these vehicles.

Key elements of the 2017 Road Map include:

  • Mandatory requirements for:
    • top tether anchorages in light commercial vehicles across all star ratings
    • seat belt reminders in front row seats for 1, 2 and 3 star ratings;
  • Minimum ratings for:
    • roof strength for 3 star rating
    • pedestrian safety for 1 and 2 star ratings
    • whiplash protection for 1 and 2 star ratings;
  • Increases to the number of additional Safety Assist Technologies (SAT) for 1, 2, 3 and 4 star ratings; and
  • Definition of a "new model"- necessary for determining to which Road Map year the vehicle is to be assessed.

"Our members, stakeholders and industry were instrumental in developing the Road Map blueprint last year, and through a collegiate approach we have once again put together a practical plan which will benefit manufacturers and consumers alike in reaching for higher levels of vehicle safety," said ANCAP Chair, Mr Lauchlan McIntosh.

"Vehicle safety is a crucial element in reducing the unnecessary loss of life on our roads, and with a combined road toll of 1600 across Australia and New Zealand last year, we mustn't become complacent."

"The development of vehicle safety systems is moving forward at a rapid pace and ANCAP is moving just as fast by ensuring manufacturers continue to include, and progressively increase these life-saving technologies into their builds," he added.

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, the Australian Government, the New Zealand Government, all Australian state governments, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.

For a full list of ANCAP safety ratings and model specifications, and vehicle safety information visit ancap.com.au.

Media Contact
Rhianne Robson
Director - Communications & Advocacy
0408 296 550