Volvo came out on top in these groundbreaking tests. Its FH Aero and FM models both received the maximum five-star Truck Safe rating. On the other end of the spectrum, Iveco's S-Way performed the weakest, earning only one star.
The testing methodology covered three main aspects:
1. Safe Driving: This looked at the driver's direct and indirect vision, driver monitoring systems, and seatbelt reminders.
2. Crash Avoidance: Euro NCAP evaluated the effectiveness of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for frontal, lane change, and low-speed maneuvering collisions.
3. Post Crash: Testers assessed how easy it would be to extract casualties from the cab in the event of an accident.
Euro NCAP gave percentage scores for each aspect and combined them for an overall rating out of five stars. They also introduced a CitySafe accreditation for trucks with technologies or design features that help prevent collisions in city centers.
Volvo's FH Aero and FM models both achieved five-star ratings and earned the CitySafe accreditation. The FM model scored particularly well, with 87% for Safe Driving, 89% for Collision Avoidance, and 80% for Rescue.
Renault's T model performed well, earning a four-star rating. While it didn't receive the CitySafe accreditation, Euro NCAP noted its high-quality ADAS. The truck scored 72% for Safe Driving, 70% for Collision Avoidance, and 80% for Rescue.
Scania had mixed results. Its G-series earned four stars and the CitySafe accreditation, scoring 71% for Safe Driving, 62% for Collision Avoidance, and 80% for Rescue. The R-series, however, received three stars and didn't get the CitySafe accreditation, with lower scores in Safe Driving (64%) but matching the G-series in other categories.
DAF's XF model received three stars and the CitySafe accreditation. It scored exceptionally well in Safe Driving with 85% but had room for improvement in Collision Avoidance, scoring only 35%. Its Rescue score matched the others at 80%.
"These tests mark a significant step forward in truck safety," said a Euro NCAP spokesperson. "We hope they'll push manufacturers to improve their vehicles and ultimately save lives on our roads."The results of these tests will likely influence truck buyers and potentially impact road safety regulations in Europe. As the first of their kind, these evaluations set a new benchmark for truck safety standards and may lead to improvements across the industry.