Euro NCAP has announced the release of its second series of Highway Assist tests.<\/p>\n
The new assessment protocols focus on two main areas: Assistance Competence \u2013 a balance between the technical competencies of the system (Vehicle Assistance) and the extent to which it keeps the driver alert and engaged (Driver Engagement) – and Safety Backup, the car\u2019s safety net in critical situations.<\/p>\n
Cars are then graded into one of four categories: Entry, Moderate, Good and Very Good.<\/p>\n
The tests have been carried out on ten cars that offer Highway Assist: the Audi Q8, the BMW 3 Series, the Ford Kuga, the Mercedes GLE, the Nissan Juke, the Peugeot 2008, the Renault Clio, the Tesla Model 3, the Volkswagen Passat and the Volvo V60.<\/p>\n
The Mercedes-Benz GLE, the BMW 3 Series and the Audi Q8 \u2013 all graded \u201cVery Good\u201d. The Renault Clio and Peugeot 2008 were both given an \u201cEntry\u201d grade while the Tesla was ranked \u201cModerate\u201d along with the Volkswagen Passat, the Nissan Juke and the Volvo V60. The Kuga achieved a \u201cGood\u201d grading,<\/p>\n
\u201cThe best systems offer a balance between the amount of assistance they provide and the level of driver engagement \u2013 and should be supported by an effective safety backup,\u201d said Dr Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe results of this round of tests demonstrate that driving assistance is fast becoming better and more readily available, but until driver monitoring is significantly improved, the driver needs to remain responsible at all times.\u201d<\/p>\n