Compact cars fail crash testing

Recent European NCAP crash testing focussing on heavy quadricycles and micro-cars has shown just how dangerous the pocket-sized cars are when compared to 'micro' category models in Australia.

The models tested are made specifically for the European market, and designed for use in urban environments. Of the nine vehicles tested, two scored a EuroNCAP crash rating of zero stars – the worst possible score – with four managing a one-star rating and three scoring just two NCAP stars.

Take for example the all-electric Club Car 2+2 and petrol-powered Ligier IXO JS Line 4 Places. These vehicles scored a zero-star NCAP safety rating, with an impact at 50km/h almost certain to result in death.

The models achieved a 23 and 22 per cent grade respectively, where many passenger cars score upwards of 80 per cent.

The dramatic crash-test video shows the results of a relatively low-speed collision, comparing the models testing to one of the safest micro-cars in the class, the Toyota iQ (five-star EuroNCAP). In most instances the vehicle structure of the quadricycle and micro-cars tested provides little or no protection at all, the models even demonstrating how the collision could prove fatal to the driver.

Only a handful of the models tested are fitted with airbags and side-impact barriers.

The crash testing included the standardised 50km/h frontal full-width collision and a side mobile barrier test, also conducted at 50km/h.

Typically, heavy quadricycles and micro-cars are not subject to the same safety legislation as traditional passenger cars and do not have to be crash tested prior to sale.

Many do not require a full driver's licence either.

The latest testing shows how poorly the popular models fare when subjected to the same tests as passenger vehicles.

Worryingly, the Microcar M.GO Family – a four-seat model pitched at urban family buyers – scored only one star with a 28 per cent score for adult occupant safety. It joined the four-seat Aixam Crossover GTR, Bajaj Qute, and Tazzari Zero in achieving a one-star rating.

The similarly sized two-seat Chatenet CH30 achieved a two-star rating, EuroNCAP listing a 38 per cent adult occupant result. It joined the Renault Twizy as the only two vehicles on test to manage a two-star rating.

Many cars in Australia that fail to attain the five-star maximum NCAP safety rating are re-engineered then retested to meet customers' high expectations.

Currently, EuroNCAP applies only a passenger occupant protection rating to heavy quadricycles and micro-cars, but says it plans to include child and pedestrian protection and driver assistance features in the near future.

Micro category cars sold in Australia are significantly larger than their European equivalents.

Popular models include the Fiat 500, Holden Spark, Mitsubishi Mirage, and Suzuki Celerio, all of which have five-star ANCAP safety ratings except the Suzuki, a four-star car.