RAC wants vehicle safety rating information in showrooms
29 August 2007
The RAC welcomes US Government legislation requiring car dealers to provide the crash test ratings of new cars displayed in their showrooms to assist consumers in buying safer vehicles.
The US "Stars on Cars" legislation will come into effect from 1 September.
"It would be great news for Australian consumers if dealers here did the same and used ANCAP star ratings to encourage buyers to consider vehicle safety when making decisions about their new car purchase," said David Moir, RAC Executive Manager of Member Advocacy.
New vehicle safety testing in Australia is conducted by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs and State governments.
The RAC already encourages car buyers to consult the ANCAP star rating system when purchasing a new car, recommending a 4-star rating is the minimum level of protection that should be considered. Used Car Safety Ratings (UCSR) information released annually also provides safety rating information on used vehicles.
"If you have a 4 or 5 star rated car it could save your life in a crash. We encourage all car buyers to buy vehicles with a 4 or 5 star safety rating.
"We would like to see the Stars on Cars program introduced by car dealers in Australia on a voluntary basis so this important safety rating information is available to consumers when they are considering a vehicle purchase.
"Some car manufacturers are already advising their customers of vehicles' star ratings and we hope all manufacturers and dealers will take up the program in the interests of promoting the purchase of safer vehicles," said Mr Moir.
Crash analysis shows that the chance of occupants being injured in a 4 or 5 star rated vehicle is reduced by more than half compared to vehicles that do not rate well in ANCAP tests.
More information on ANCAP and UCSR ratings can be found at rac.com.au.
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