Euro NCAP tests seven regional distribution trucks. All the results

Euro NCAP has recently completed a new round of safety tests. This time, a total of seven truck were tested. In particular, they were rigid trucks for regional distribution. To sum up, five were awarded the maximum five-star safety rating, and all were judged to be CitySafe. An additional five-star rating and CitySafe label was achieved by a vehicle in the Utility sector.

Regional distribution trucks account for more or less 10 percent of the heavy truck market. This type of truck typically weighs up to 18 tonnes, has two axles and typically operates with a curtain-sided or box body.

Euro NCAP truck tests: five trucks awarded with five-star rating

For the first time, five of the seven trucks in the Regional Distribution category achieved Euro NCAP’s maximum five-star rating. This represents significant progress from commercial vehicle makers. Whereas only two trucks achieved five stars in 2024, when Euro NCAP began testing of trucks, that number has more than doubled in just two years.

As for the methods, each model was tested in three key areas – Safe Driving (vision, driver monitoring, assistance systems), Crash Avoidance (active braking for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, lane support), and Post-Crash Safety (rescue information) – and awarded an overall star rating. In addition, a CitySafe award is given to every truck that meets a minimum threshold in the assessments most relevant to operation in dense urban environments.

Leading Euro NCAP’s impartial testing is the Scania L-series, which achieved an overall score of 90 per cent. The Mercedes-Benz Actros and Volvo FM follow closely behind the Scania L-series with overall scores of 88 per cent, just one per cent ahead of the other Scania tested, the P-series. Joining them in the five-star club is the MAN TGM, which achieved an overall score of 80 per cent. Both the Scania and MAN models have seen their scores climb from three stars to five stars in Euro NCAP tests, reflecting an intensified focus on safety engineering.

Statement from Matthew Avery (Euro NCAP)

“It is positive to see commercial vehicle manufacturers responding to Euro NCAP testing and showing impressive commitment to improving the safety of their new trucks”, said Matthew Avery, Director of Strategic Development Euro NCAP (read our last interview with Mr Avery here). “Five five-star trucks in one round of testing is a very welcome record. And it means fleet operators and their buyers have never had such strong choice of safe trucks in Regional Distribution sector. But there is a caveat: when ordering a new addition for fleets, buyers need to tick the right boxes for the equipment listed on the datasheet to ensure the best-possible safety. While it might be a slightly more expensive truck initially, it’s a price worth paying to protect your colleagues, other road users and your brand’s reputation”.

Euro NCAP is already looking toward the next phase of road safety. City Distribution trucks (up to 12 tonnes) are scheduled for testing and release in November, covering some of the most popular models found on Europe’s roads.