Summary:
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports significant progress in front car crash prevention, particularly in automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems. A recent study found that 22 out of 30 tested vehicles earned a “Good” or “Acceptable” rating, meaning they effectively prevent or mitigate high-speed crashes. This is a major improvement compared to last year when only three of 10 small SUVs met the standard.
Vehicles with “Good” ratings include the Acura ZDX, BMW X5 and X6, Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Genesis GV80, Honda Prologue, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia EV9, Lexus NX, Subaru Forester, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Tacoma. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class achieved this rating only with an optional system. “Acceptable” ratings went to the Genesis G80, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Sonata, Jeep Wagoneer, Mazda CX-50, and Acura MDX (with optional equipment).
Conversely, the Ford Expedition received a “Marginal” rating, while the Audi Q7, Buick Envista, Chevrolet Tahoe, Kia Seltos, and Nissan Altima were rated “Poor.” Notably, most Poor-rated vehicles are SUVs, which can cause greater damage in crashes.
IIHS has increased testing rigor. replacing its older, lower-speed evaluations with tests at 50, 60, and 70 km/h. This is including scenarios involving motorcycles and semi-trailers. Annually, 400 deaths occur in crashes with semi-trailers, while 200 motorcyclists die in rear-end collisions.
The study found that vehicles performing poorly often failed in motorcycle crash scenarios. With some hitting stationary motorcycles at over 40 km/h. IIHS President David Harkey emphasized that preventing high-speed crashes, especially those involving motorcycles, remains a challenge. He highlighted that motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable due to the lack of protective barriers. Making AEB system improvements crucial for overall road safety.
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