Euro NCAP will introduce its most significant overhaul of vehicle safety ratings in 2026, broadening its focus from crash protection to include driver assistance, accident avoidance, and post-collision recovery.
This extensive revision aims to better reflect the complexities of modern driving, integrating new vehicle technologies and addressing risks beyond traditional high-speed impacts.
The updated system will divide safety performance into four distinct stages. All stages must be successfully passed for a vehicle to achieve the coveted five-star rating.
One key shift emphasizes “Safe Driving,” which will scrutinize advanced driver monitoring systems designed to detect fatigue and distraction. It also evaluates a vehicle’s ability to intervene if a driver becomes incapacitated.
Crucially, the new rules will penalize vehicles that rely exclusively on touchscreens. Euro NCAP will re-emphasize the importance of physical buttons and ergonomic controls for essential functions.
The “Crash Avoidance” section will introduce more realistic testing scenarios. These include automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, and the detection of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
Tests will also cover complex urban situations, common “pedal error” incidents where a driver accidentally accelerates, and low-speed collisions.
Traditional “Crash Protection” tests will become more demanding. They will assess occupant safety for individuals of different sizes and ages, utilizing a combination of physical tests and advanced simulations.
Increased attention will be given to pedestrian protection and critical vehicle zones, including windshields and front extremities.
The final stage, “Post-Crash Safety,” focuses on ensuring rapid and safe rescue after an accident. This requires doors and electrical controls to remain functional.
It also mandates more precise warning and location systems. For electric vehicles, safe battery isolation will be a key criterion.
Emergency call (eCall) systems will need to accurately communicate the real number of vehicle occupants to emergency services.
These comprehensive changes acknowledge that contemporary automotive risks extend beyond physical impact to include driver distraction, fatigue, excessive screen use, and the intricate nature of vehicle electrical systems.