Save fuel and save lives

The latest crash test results from the Australasian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP) show that cars can be designed to save fuel and save lives.

The Mini Cooper diesel hatch and all models of the hybrid Toyota Prius have achieved ANCAP’s top five star rating for occupant protection.

ANCAP is supported by all New Zealand and Australian motoring clubs, the New Zealand government and all Australian state governments, The NZ Transport Agency and the NZ Automobile Association are both members of ANCAP.

NZTA’s Group Manager Access and Use Ian Gordon said the latest results were good news for consumers in this country.

“Manufacturers have responded to the demand for safer cars, and New Zealand motorists can now choose from a wide range of vehicles which span all shapes and sizes. These latest results show that manufacturers can also make fuel efficient vehicles which don’t compromise on safety.”

The results released today are from crash tests undertaken by ANCAP in Australia and by ANCAP’s collegiate organisation EuroNCAP, to internationally recognised protocols.

AA General Manager Technical Stella Stocks said all of the five star models include head-protecting side airbags or curtains, antilock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) and electronic stability control (ESC) as standard. Importantly the results apply to all models in the various ranges, not only luxury specified vehicles.

Detailed crash test results are available on the websites of both organisations – www.aa.co.nz or www.nzta.govt.nz

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