Euro NCAP has issued its latest set of Assisted Driving gradings, based on assessments of three new vehicles.

Euro NCAP says such technology must support drivers while avoiding them from becoming disengaged from driving the car

The independent crash-test safety body has been evaluating Assisted Driving systems for the past three years and has now tested the Alfa Romeo Tonale (‘moderate’), Nissan Ariya (‘very good’) and Renault Astral (‘very good’).

Assisted Driving systems tackle the risks of drivers leaving a lane unintentionally and going off the highway due to distraction or drowsiness, or running into the car in front – which are the two most common crashes on highways. They work by steering the car within its lane and ensuring the maintenance of a safe distance from the vehicle in front allowing the car time to safely brake.

Euro NCAP partner Thatcham Research, which played a prominent role in the design of the assessments, said Assisted Driving systems must balance providing meaningful support while avoiding motorists becoming disengaged from the driving task.

Dominic Tough, Thatcham Research research engineer, said: “Assisted Driving technology is an increasingly common feature on new vehicles. It combines Adaptive Cruise Control and Electronic Lane Keeping functions to support the driver and make motoring easier. Crucially, it does not replace the driver who retains responsibility for safety and must stay engaged.

“This is in part why the Alfa Romeo Tonale has been awarded a ‘moderate’ rating by Euro NCAP. Although the nomenclature used to describe the system itself (Active Driving Assist) accurately portrays functionality, the brand’s associated marketing materials make several references to ‘autonomous’ driving and by doing so, overstate system capability.

“References to autonomy must be treated with caution, to allay confusion regarding the driver’s legal responsibilities for safe transit.

The Nissan Ariya and Renault Astral were both awarded ‘very good’ ratings in the assessments.

Tough continued: “The Nissan Ariya and Renault Austral’s ‘very good’ Assisted Driving ratings are a product of excellent safety back-up functions, combined with well-balanced levels of driver engagement and driving assistance.

“Both brands communicate the limitations of system capability effectively, leaving no doubt that this is Assisted Driving technology that supports – but does not replace – an attentive and engaged driver.”