IIHS Test Reveals Most Small SUVs Perform Poorly in Automatic Emergency Braking
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently conducted a new frontal crash prevention test for vehicles, focusing on automatic emergency braking technology. The test aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these systems in preventing crashes at higher speeds. The results of the test showed that most small SUVs performed poorly in this assessment.
The IIHS tested ten SUVs in total, including popular models such as the Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Compass, Mitsubishi Outlander, Chevy Equinox, and Volkswagen Taos. Among these vehicles, only the Subaru Forester received a “Good” rating from the IIHS. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 were rated as “Acceptable”, while Ford, Hyundai, and Jeep models were rated as “Marginal”. The rest of the SUVs were given a “Poor” rating by the IIHS.
Automatic emergency braking systems are designed to alert drivers of impending crashes and apply the brakes automatically if the driver does not respond in time. The IIHS test was conducted at varying speeds, including 12, 25, 31,37, and 43 mph, to test the effectiveness of these systems in preventing collisions.
IIHS President David Harkey emphasized the importance of automatic emergency braking technology in preventing front-to-rear crashes. He stated, “The vast majority of new vehicles now come with automatic emergency braking, and our research shows that the technology prevents up to half of all front-to-rear crashes. This new, more stringent assessment focuses on some of the most dangerous front-to-rear accidents that still occur.”
During the tests, the SUVs were driven towards three different stationary objects: an inflatable simulated motorcycle, an inflatable simulated car, and a real semi-trailer. Most SUVs were able to provide early warnings to drivers, but many failed to stop completely before colliding with the objects at higher speeds. While a reduction in speed before a collision can minimize the severity of accidents, the ultimate goal of these systems is to avoid collisions altogether.
The IIHS test results highlight the need for further improvement in automatic emergency braking technology for small SUVs. Despite advancements in automotive safety features, some of the most popular vehicles on the road still have challenges in preventing crashes effectively.
In conclusion, the IIHS test revealed significant variations in the performance of automatic emergency braking systems among small SUVs. While some models showed promise in preventing collisions, others fell short in meeting the safety standards set by the IIHS. Automakers are encouraged to continue enhancing their safety technologies to ensure the protection of drivers and passengers on the road.
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