NHTSA Updates 5-Star NCAP Crash Testing Criteria
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has finalized updates to its 5-Star Safety Ratings program.
The changes, mandated by the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law, aim to enhance vehicle safety and provide consumers with more comprehensive information.
Key updates to the NCAP rating system include the addition of four advanced driver assistance technologies (ADAS): pedestrian automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind spot warning, and blind spot intervention. NHTSA has also strengthened testing protocols for existing technologies like automatic emergency braking (AEB) to ensure higher performance standards.
A significant new feature is the introduction of a pedestrian protection program, which evaluates how well a vehicle's front end minimizes injuries in vehicle-to-pedestrian crashes. Future plans include protections for bicyclists and motorcyclists and revisions to the rating system.
"Our goal with NHTSA’s 5-Star Safety Ratings program has always been to help consumers choose safer vehicles and to encourage manufacturers to improve vehicle safety,” NHTSA Chief Counsel Adam Raviv said in the release. “With these NCAP updates, we’re ensuring consumers have more useful and relevant information on the latest safety technologies and that the program keeps up with the pace of technological change and innovation.”
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the cut-throat world of IndyCar.
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