Poor 2 star safety result for LDV commercial van

Poor 2 star safety result for LDV commercial van

A lack of electronic stability control and a poor crash test result has led to dismal 2 star ANCAP safety rating for the LDV V80 commercial van.

The Australasian New Car Assessment Programme offset crash test of the van demonstrated the potential for serious injury to the driver especially to the feet legs and chest areas. The result applies to the short-wheelbase, low-roof variant manufactured from 2013.

During the test, the passenger compartment lost structural integrity and there was excessive movement of the steering column and pedals.

It was shown that steering column components could cause knee injuries to the driver and dash components were another source of injury for both the driver and passenger.

AA Motoring Services General Manager Stella Stocks says the crash test result is disappointing.

“While we recognise the LDV as a low cost option in the commercial van category, there is a risky trade off in terms of occupant safety,” Ms Stocks says.

“This model only managed a score of 4.97 out of a possible 16 in the frontal offset test which is extremely low. In addition, the van also lacks electronic stability control, which has limited the safety rating to 2 stars.”

The vehicle also lacks chest and head-protecting side airbags and intelligent seat belt reminders.

“Generally vehicle manufacturers have lifted the game markedly in terms of providing for occupant safety and also crash prevention technology like ESC as standard.

“ANCAP has set the safety bar high and it’s pleasing that most car makers strive to achieve a maximum safety rating and, in many cases, exceed it with additional technology.”

Ms Stocks says consumers should be wary of any new vehicle that is not achieving good results in crash tests.

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

The full list of ANCAP’s vehicle safety ratings, other vehicle safety information and the specifications of the rated vehicles are available online at aa.co.nz or rightcar.govt.nz.

ENDS

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