Electric hybrid and hydrogen vehicles in best three Euro NCAP performers

Two alternative fuel vehicles are among the top three in the Euro NCAP ‘Best in Class’ safety performers.

The Lexus ES was named the best all-round performer in the large family car category and also claimed Euro NCAP’s new award for best performing hybrid or electric car in the 2018 season of safety testing.

The fuel cell Hyundai Nexo is the best of the large off-roaders category.

The Mercedes-Benz A Class is considered the stand-out performer in the small family car category and achieved this year’s overall best result.

“In 2018 we introduced tough new tests, with a particular focus on vulnerable road user protection,” Euro NCAP secretary general Michiel van Ratingen says.

“The three Best in Class award winners this year all clearly demonstrate that car-makers are striving for the highest levels of protection and that Euro NCAP’s assessments are a catalyst for these crucial safety improvements.

“Euro NCAP put automated driving technology to the test in 2018 for the first time and our findings helped clarify some of the confusion motoring consumers are currently experiencing. Assisted driving systems can bring safety and convenience benefits, but full automation is a long way off. We will follow and assess these developments closely and ensure that consumers have all the information they need when considering these new driver technologies.

“In the meantime, our assessment road map presents some important challenges for vehicle manufacturers in the years ahead and we hope that all car-makers will rise to this opportunity as Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and Hyundai have done this year.”

The Best on Class awards are based on scores in four assessment areas – adult occupant, child occupant, pedestrian and safety assist.