LDV V80 hit with low safety rating

The Chinese-manufactured LDV V80 van has achieved only two stars in the ANCAP safety rating testing system. The tested model went on sale in Australia and New Zealand in 2013 and the rating was announced earlier this month. The ANCAP safety rating result applies to the short-wheelbase low-roof variant (there is a long-wheelbase mid-roof or high-roof variant available). 

Dual frontal airbags are standard in the LDV V80, as are electronic brake distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA). The vehicle does not feature electronic stability control (ESC).

The V80 achieved just 4.97 points out of a possible 16 points in the frontal offset crash test (conducted at 64 km/h), with a risk of serious injury to the driver's head, chest and legs. In addition, The V80’s additional lack of ESC has limited its ANCAP safety rating to two stars.

“Under regulatory requirements, the LDV V80 [and other light commercial vehicles (LCVs)] is afforded a number of safety concessions. Under the ANCAP assessment regime, however, these concessions are not applicable,” said ANCAP Chief Executive Officer Nicholas Clarke.

“ANCAP requirements are more stringent than those of regulation. ANCAP applies the same standards to both light commercial and light passenger vehicles. This is vital in providing consumers with transparent and easily comparable safety ratings — whether they be looking to buy for commercial or private purposes.

“More has to be done to encourage manufacturers to increase the level of safety provided in LCVs. Even newly released commercial vehicles are providing safety features as optional extras. The question is: why?

“The safety of those travelling in commercial vehicles is no less important than those travelling in passenger cars,” said Clarke.

The LDV V80 also lacks chest- and head-protecting side airbags and intelligent seatbelt reminders.