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New Holden Epica scores 4 stars in crash tests

21 November 2007

The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has released the crash test results for the new model Holden Epica which scored 4 stars out of 5 for occupant protection.

The RAC's Executive Manager for Member Advocacy David Moir said the Holden Epica was subjected to three different crash tests and achieved 4 stars. 

"While a 4 four star result is a reasonable outcome, several similar size cars are achieving 5 star ratings," said Mr Moir. 

"ANCAP has been testing vehicles since 1992 and manufacturers have been aware of the test programme since then. We believe that high safety ratings should be seen as vital by manufacturers and consumers alike."

Mr Moir said that the Holden Epica had side head protecting airbags on all variants, but Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not available on any variant.

"ESC has been shown to be highly effective in Australia in a recent analysis by Monash University released by RAC and other stakeholders last week," said Mr Moir.

"The report shows that single vehicle crashes causing driver injury were reduced by up to 66 per cent in vehicles fitted with ESC.

"From 1 January next year, ANCAP will require ESC to be fitted to vehicles to score 5 stars.

"This shows the importance ANCAP attaches to this valuable safety technology," he said.

ANCAP also released a brochure summarising the results of 46 vehicles tested during 2007 in Australia and Europe. Twelve of these are new results.

"It is encouraging to see the increasing numbers of vehicles now scoring 5 stars for occupant protection," said Mr Moir.

"However, as ANCAP has pointed out before, many vehicles that are fitted with the equipment to score 5 stars in Europe and New Zealand do not always have this equipment installed in cars sold in Australia.

"We encourage consumers to demand the highest levels of safety features and urge manufacturers to make them available.

"ANCAP believes all new vehicles should have front, side and head protecting airbags, and ESC, as standard equipment.  This would help reduce crash fatalities and injuries in Australia and New Zealand," said Mr Moir.