The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) is partnering with QBE, making the insurer the the first Associate Member to join its new Safer Trucks testing programme.
Euro NCAP, the independent body behind vehicle safety launched its Safer Trucks testing programme in November last year to create a safety standard for HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles) for the first time.
The new Safer Trucks testing programme marks an important milestone for HGV drivers and road user safety. Due to their size and weight, HGVs represent less than 3 per cent of vehicles on Europe’s roads but are involved in nearly 15 per cent of all road fatalities.
According to the latest numbers from the Department for Transport, in the UK, there were 188 road fatalities involving HGVs in 2023 . Crashes involving heavy commercial vehicles stand out due to their serious consequences, often to occupants in other smaller vehicles and vulnerable road users, particularly in cities.
QBE is one of the world’s leading insurers providing cover in more than 180 countries and has been providing Motor Fleet cover in the UK for nearly 100 years. The partnership means more action on improving commercial vehicle safety and more integrated risk management through the sharing of claims trends and HGV safety technology.
The Safer Trucks testing programme has created a benchmark in safety for the first time by setting best practices for road authorities, hauliers, drivers, insurers, truck manufacturers, and businesses shipping and hauling their goods safely. The first Safer Trucks set of ratings assessed nine trucks with Volvo’s FH Aero and FM models both earning a five-star rating.
“The launch of the Safer Trucks assessment programme is a major landmark moment for vehicle safety. We are honoured that QBE, an insurer with such renown in the commercial motor market is joining us on our journey to a safer fleet sector. Vision zero for road casualties will not be achieved without taking action to improve the safety of commercial vehicles and it is a journey that we need to take together to be effective. A truck safety rating not only incentivises good performance, but also allows optimisation of operational safety and cost, and improves truck safety leading to safer European roads. The safest vehicle is also the most profitable one,” Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General Euro NCAP said.
