VEHICLE SPECIFICATION,SPONSORSHIP,TESTING AND RETESTING
PROTOCOL
Version 7.0

Euro NCAP © June 2015
EUROPEAN NEW VEHICLE ASSESSMENT PROGRAMME

Copyright © June 2015 Euro NCAP - This work is the intellectual property of Euro NCAP. Permission is
granted for this material to be shared for non-commercial, educational purposes, provided that this copyrightstatement appears on the reproduced materials and notice is given that the copying is by permission of Euro
NCAP. To disseminate otherwise or to republish requires written permission from Euro NCAP.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.

INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 4

2.

SPONSORSHIP AND MODEL NOMINATION .................................................................. 4

3.

SPECIFICATION OF TEST VEHICLES................................................................................ 7

4.

VEHICLE SELECTION AND STATUS OF TEST VEHICLE .................................................... 11

5.

TESTING, RETESTING AND REASSESSMENT ................................................................ 13

6.

PUBLICATION OF RESULTS ......................................................................................... 147.

APPENDIX ................................................................................................................. 17

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Vehicle Specification, Sponsorship, Testing and Retesting
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VEHICLE SPECIFICATION, SPONSORSHIP, TESTING ANDRETESTING PROTOCOL
1. Introduction
This protocol details Euro NCAP’s procedures relating to the sponsorship, nomination andselection of models to be assessed by Euro NCAP, the specification of vehicles to be tested,
their testing arrangements, the circumstances when re-testing is allowed and the rules ofpublication.
1.1.

Definitions

1.1.1. In this document, frequent references are made to terms as model release date,variant, model range, safety equipment, etc. A list of definitions for these terms in the context
of this protocol can be found in the Appendix.
1.1.2. With Europe, the market that includes all current Member States of the European
Union (currently EU-28) is meant. Should the European Union expand to include new member
states, Euro NCAP will take the steps necessary to apply all requirements of this protocol(fitment of standard safety equipment, etc.) to the enlarged union as soon as practicable.

2. Sponsorship and Model Nomination
Euro NCAP’s internal rules stipulate that each of the Members sponsors at least one vehicle
model a year. In addition, vehicle manufacturers often wish to sponsor a vehicle so that theresults may be published at a preferred time, such as the vehicle’s public launch. Euro NCAP
applies a set of rules to address the most common situations where conflicts may occur.
2.1.

Preconditions

2.1.1. Vehicle models can be nominated for inclusion in Euro NCAP’s assessment
programme by a Euro NCAP Member, a vehicle manufacturer or any third party. By
nominating a model, the party agrees to accept the costs related to the assessment andpublication of the result.
2.1.2. Subject to 2.1.3, any vehicle model currently on sale in Europe can be nominated. No
consideration is given to:• Sales volume;• Method of type-approval (whole vehicle, low volume, etc.).
2.1.3. Vehicles that have a valid rating cannot be nominated, except in case of a reassessment (see 5.3).
Note: The validity of the rating is defined in the Application of Star Ratings protocol.
2.1.4. The choice of vehicle model to be assessed by Euro NCAP shall be made by thesponsor. Sponsors are encouraged to nominate their choice of vehicle as soon as possible
but no later than 1st of September of the year in which tests must take place.
2.2.

Member Sponsored Models

2.2.1. Where a Manufacturer wishes to sponsor a vehicle model already nominated a
Member, the Member will have the first right, subject to section 2.2.2.
2.2.2. Where a manufacturer wishes to sponsor the testing of a new vehicle model alreadynominated by a Member, the following conditions apply:

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2.2.2.1. Up to 12 months before the model release date, the manufacturer has exclusive
rights to sponsor the testing of that vehicle. Once the formal agreement to sponsor the vehicle
is made, it cannot be cancelled and the manufacturer is obliged to inform Euro NCAP of any
changes in the model release date.
2.2.2.2. After 12 months prior to the model release date, the manufacturer loses the exclusive
right to sponsor the vehicle. A manufacturer may take over the sponsorship commitment from
the Member or third party, provided they agree to comply with the following requirements:• The choice of drive (LHD or RHD) and the choice of test laboratory are notchanged.
• The publication date of the Euro NCAP result is not later than 3 months after
customers first receive their cars;• If the rating is delayed beyond the 3 month deadline, the car being sold becomes
eligible for testing. If a member wishes to assume or resume sponsorship, the caron sale to the public will be tested.
• The manufacturer may continue with sponsorship of the model if different results
are expected from later cars. However, publication of the rating will not be sooner
than publication of the member-sponsored tests on earlier cars.
2.2.2.3. If the member-sponsored tests on earlier cars cannot be completed against thecurrent assessment year, the car will be assessed against the protocols of the following year.
In the case where the manufacturer has taken over sponsorship, the Member may nominate
an alternative vehicle model.
2.2.3. Where a manufacturer wishes to sponsor the testing of any other vehicle model
already nominated by a Member or third party, the following conditions apply:
2.2.3.1.
The manufacturer may take over the sponsorship commitment from theMember, provided they agree to comply with the following requirements:• The publication date is not delayed by more than 3 months;• The choice of drive (LHD or RHD) and the choice of test laboratory are notchanged.
• If publication is delayed by more than 3 months, the car being sold becomes
eligible for testing. See section 2.3.2.
2.2.3.2. A manufacturer may advise Euro NCAP that a vehicle model which has been chosen
for sponsorship by a Member is soon to be replaced by a newer version. If so, themanufacturer may request that the updated model be tested.
• If this is expected to delay publication by more than 3 months, the request will only
be accepted if the manufacturer agrees to take over sponsorship of the vehicle.
The choice of drive (LHD or RHD) must not be affected;• Publication of the results for the updated vehicle model cannot be delayed beyond
3 months after customers first deliveries of the newer version to customers;• Euro NCAP reserves the right to test the original vehicle model if the above
conditions are not met (see 2.3.2).
2.3.

Manufacturer Sponsored Models

2.3.1. Where a third party wishes to sponsor the testing of any vehicle model alreadynominated by a manufacturer, the manufacturer will have the first right.
2.3.2. Where the manufacturer has nominated a new vehicle or an updated vehicle which is
not yet made available to consumers at the time of nomination, the following needs to betaken into account:• The publication date of the Euro NCAP result must not be later than 3 months
after customers first receive their cars;
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Note: This requirement will be waived if the schedule cannot be met because of atest or other failure on Euro NCAP’s part.
• If the rating is delayed beyond the 3 month deadline, the car being sold becomes
eligible for testing. If a member wishes to assume or resume sponsorship, the caron sale to the public will be tested.
• The manufacturer may continue with sponsorship of the model if different results
are expected from later cars. However, publication of the rating will not be sooner
than publication of the member-sponsored tests on earlier cars.
• If the member-sponsored tests on earlier cars cannot be completed against thecurrent assessment year, the car will be assessed against the protocols of thefollowing year.
Note: these restrictions shall not apply if the manufacturer wishes to sponsor a vehicle
which is currently on sale and which is not going to be updated.
2.3.3. Up to 12 months before the model release date, the manufacturer has exclusive rights
to sponsor the testing of that vehicle. Once the formal agreement to sponsor thevehicle is made, it cannot be cancelled and the manufacturer is obliged to inform EuroNCAP of any changes in the model release date.
2.3.4. After 12 months prior to the model release date, the manufacturer loses the exclusive
right to sponsor the vehicle. A manufacturer may take over the sponsorshipcommitment from the Member, provided they agree to comply with the following
requirements:• The choice of drive (LHD or RHD) and the choice of test laboratory are notchanged.
• The publication date of the Euro NCAP result is not later than 3 months after
customers first receive their cars;• If the rating is delayed beyond the 3 month deadline, the car being sold becomes
eligible for testing. If a member wishes to assume or resume sponsorship, the caron sale to the public will be tested.
• The manufacturer may continue with sponsorship of the model if different results
are expected from later cars. However, publication of the rating will not be sooner
than publication of the member-sponsored tests on earlier cars.
2.3.5. Where a manufacturer wishes to sponsor the testing of a vehicle model alreadynominated by a Member or third party, the manufacturer may take over the sponsorshipcommitment from the Member or third party, provided they agree to comply with the following
requirements:• The publication date is not delayed by more than 3 months;• The choice of drive (LHD or RHD) and the choice of test laboratory are notchanged.
2.4.

Third Party Sponsored Models

2.4.1. Where a third party (for example an organisation which wishes to sponsor the testingof a vehicle or vehicle type which is of particular relevance to its activities) wishes to sponsor
the testing of a vehicle model already nominated by a manufacturer or Member, themanufacturer or Member will have the first right.

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Specification of Test Vehicles

Even though different vehicle variants may offer different levels of protection, it is impossible
for Euro NCAP to rate all variants of a vehicle model available in Europe individually. The star
rating is intended to cover the most popular variant(s) and represent the lowest safety
specification at the same time. For this reason, the test variant of the model is derived frommanufacturers’ data that includes model range availability and safety equipment fitted inEurope. The choice of test variant is independent from the sponsorship model. This section
covers vehicle test specification for base rating and optional dual rating.
3.1.

Basic Level Safety

3.1.1. The base test variant will have Basic Level Safety Equipment. The Basic Level willcomprise those items that are fitted as standard across the model range. Only safety
equipment which is part of the Basic Level will be eligible for assessment and may contributetowards the scoring of the vehicle.
3.1.2. Notwithstanding paragraph 3.1.1, some protocols consider also equipment that does
not qualify as Basic Level Safety Equipment. This might apply, for example, where optional
equipment might compromise the ability of the vehicle to accommodate certain occupants incertain positions (e.g. optional front passenger airbag), or where optional equipment isrelevant to a full assessment of the vehicle (e.g. optional third row seats). Details are given in
individual protocols.
3.1.3. The Basic Level will be determined as follows. The manufacturer will be asked tocomplete an Equipment Matrix template, which will be supplied by Euro NCAP. In the matrix,
the manufacturer must identify all items of safety equipment available in the model range andstate whether they are standard on all variants or optional on some.
Note 1: in identifying the Basic Level equipment, Euro NCAP may exempt certain low
volume variants where the fitting of such safety equipment cannot be expected. For
example, this might include low sales volume variants specially produced for motor
sport or other special purposes.
Note 2: Delete options are not allowed. An item of safety equipment offered with adelete option anywhere in Europe will be considered not to be standard equipment.
3.1.3.1. For new models, the data in the completed Equipment Matrix must be based on sales
forecasts over the period of 1 year from the date of the publication of the rating result. EuroNCAP will ask the manufacturer to confirm the projected fitment figures one year after
publication and each subsequent year as long as the rating is valid (Annual review, see
Application of Star Ratings protocol).
3.1.3.2. For models already on sale for one year or more, the data in the completed
Equipment Matrix must be based on actual sales figures over the previous year. Euro NCAP
will ask the manufacturer to confirm the fitment figures one year after publication and eachsubsequent year as long as the rating is valid (Annual review, see Application of Star Ratings
protocol).
3.2.

Test Variant

3.2.1. Regarding all non-safety related features and equipment of the vehicle, the test variant
will be based on the best selling variant in Europe. However, if the exact specification of thebest-selling variant is not readily available or cannot be acquired, Euro NCAP may test avariant with non-safety equipment other than the best-seller. In all cases, the safety
equipment will be based on the base safety level and the engine , transmission andpowertrain will be based on the best-seller.
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3.2.2. The best selling variant will be identified from the information supplied by the
manufacturer. Where Euro NCAP chooses to test a particular, less common, variant such as“open-top” or “estate vehicle,” the choice will be restricted to the best selling variant of thattype. Manufacturers can also sponsor such tests, provided that the vehicle model has alreadybeen rated without this constraint.
3.2.3. Where the best selling variant is fitted with safety equipment above the Basic Level,
the choice of variant will be adjusted to obtain a Basic Level safety specification variant. The
aim will be to minimise the extent of the other changes to the vehicle’s specification. Thisadjustment might be done in the following order:a)Change in the hand of drive;b)
Increase in trim level;c)
Reduction in trim level;d)Change in number of side doors;e)Increase in volume of the engine/transmission unit;f)Reduction in volume of the engine/transmission unit;g)
Change in body style.
Note: Certain exceptions to the minimum standard safety equipment requirement may
be necessary, e.g. an open top variant without a curtain airbag or with a substitutecombined head/thorax airbag.
3.2.4. Where a vehicle, or the required variant, is to be available only in one hand of drive,that hand of drive will be tested. Where a manufacturer sponsors a vehicle model for
publication at the time of its launch, and where only one hand of drive is available on thatdate, that hand of drive will be tested. In all other circumstances, Euro NCAP will be
responsible for randomly choosing the drive layout for all vehicle models to be tested.
Note 1: Euro NCAP will report the proportion of vehicles tested in LHD and RHD to theBoard of Directors. Overall, the aim will be to ensure that 20 percent of vehicle models
tested will be in RHD configuration.
Note 2: the manufacturer is asked to supply information about the performance of the
opposite hand of drive. Where necessary, the manufacturer will be asked to provide
evidence that the necessary adjustments have not significantly affected the passenger
compartment’s intrusion or deceleration pulse.
3.2.5. Whiplash seats will be tested separately from the vehicle. The manufacturer will be
required to supply Euro NCAP with details about the full range of seats available for thatmodel of vehicle and of any differences between the driver and front passenger’s seats in the
Basic Level vehicle that might influence Whiplash protection. Euro NCAP will choose whether
to test the driver’s or front passenger’s seat. Where no significant differences exist, this will be
on a random basis. Where there are differences, the seat considered least likely to offer good
protection will be chosen. Manufacturers are allowed to sponsor the testing of other versionsof their seats and the whiplash ratings of those seats will also be published.
3.2.6. If the vehicle manufacturer does not submit the Equipment Matrix, Euro NCAP will test
the vehicles with the lowest specification that can be readily obtained in Europe.
3.3.

Optional Safety Equipment

If a vehicle has achieved a base rating of three stars or greater, it becomes eligible for an
optional star rating showing the benefit of optional safety equipment. Regardless of thesponsor of the base safety rating, all activities required to establish the optional star rating will
be paid for by the manufacturer. A request for a dual star rating can only be made by the
manufacturer and must be made before test vehicle selection.

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3.3.1. Safety Equipment
3.3.1.1. The assessment for the optional star rating may include those items of safety
equipment for which Euro NCAP gives credit in the year of assessment (see Table 1 below)
but which are not eligible for inclusion in the base rating because they are not fitted as
standard to the model range.
3.3.1.2. No passive safety technologies (airbags, inflatable seatbelts, etc.) are eligible forassessment as optional equipment (i.e. for inclusion in Table 1 below).
3.3.1.3. Euro NCAP will over time add new items to the list of eligible technologies andestablish for each item on a case per case basis the duration for which inclusion in theoptional pack will be allowed.
2016

2017

2018

AEB City(a)

X

X

X

AEB Inter-Urban

X

X

X

AEB VRU-Pe

X

X

AEB VRU-Cy

2019

2020

X

X

X

X

X

Junction Assist
LKA/LDW/LSS(b)

X

X

X

SAS(c)

X

X

X

X

2021

2022

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Notes
(a) Only if sensor technology used also support other safety functions(b) From 2018, only LSS including road edge detection(c) From 2017, only for systems that offer the ISA functionality
3.3.2. Safety Pack
3.3.2.1. The additional items of safety equipment must be combined in a ‘safety pack’. The‘safety pack’ must: Include all of the technologies needed to achieve the targeted optional rating. The
minimum number of safety technologies included in a pack is one.
 Be available, at least as an option, on all variants in the model range, independentof engine, transmission, body style or trim-level (grade) and separately from anyother option offered by the manufacturer, for all countries of the European Union.
 Not change in (rating relevant) content during the lifetime of the Euro NCAP star
rating, other than when relevant technologies are made standard on all variants, orwhen equivalent performance can be achieved by a different technology (forexample, a camera-based AEB system may be replaced by a radar + camera
based system if its performance can be shown to be at least as good)
3.3.2.2. The safety pack may:
 Include only those items of safety equipment which are needed for the
manufacturer to achieve the targeted optional rating.
 Include other items of equipment, not relevant to Euro NCAP’s rating, which the
manufacturer sees fit to include in the safety pack for marketing or other purposes.
 Not be the only way in which the manufacturer sells safety technology relevant to
the optional rating. The manufacturer may sell safety technologies individually orin other option packs. However, Euro NCAP will consider fitment rates of thesafety pack only i.e. the fitment rates referred to in 3.3.3refer to sales of the safety
pack and not to individual safety items or technologies.

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 Contain a sub-set of the technologies needed for the optional star rating,depending on country or region. For example, where all relevant technologies are
fitted as standard to all variants there is no need for a safety pack; where one ormore technology is standard on all variants, the safety pack may contain only
those other technologies needed to achieve the optional rating.
3.3.3. Installation Rates
3.3.3.1. For a vehicle to be eligible for an optional rating, the manufacturer must confirm thatthey expect that 25 percent (average percentage) of the cars sold in the first three years
following publication of the optional rating will be equipped with the safety pack, either asstandard equipment or as an option. In the second three years the manufacturer confirms afitment of 55 percent average. The rating expires after six years, as today.
3.3.3.2. Two years after the publication of the optional rating, the manufacturer must contact
the Euro NCAP Programme Manager with sales data demonstrating that 25 percent of cars
sold in the previous two years were equipped with the safety pack, either as standard
equipment or as an option. Where the content of the safety pack differs between regions orcountries, a check will be made that 25 percent of cars sold were simultaneously equipped, asstandard or as an option, with all the technologies relevant to the optional star rating.
3.3.3.3. Five years after the publication of the optional rating, the manufacturer must contact
the Euro NCAP Programme Manager with sales data demonstrating that 55 percent of cars
sold in the previous two years were equipped with the safety pack, either as standard
equipment or as an option. Where the content of the safety pack differs between regions orcountries, a check will be made that 55 percent of cars sold were simultaneously equipped, asstandard or as an option, with all the technologies relevant to the optional star rating.
3.3.3.4. Failure to contact Euro NCAP with the data required, or failure to meet the fitment
rates identified in 3.3.3.2 and 3.3.3.3, will result in the following actions: A comment will immediately be added to the vehicle’s web page on Euro NCAP’s
website to say that the manufacturer is not currently meeting its commitment topromote and sell the safety pack.
 A period of one year will be given to the manufacturer to meet the fitment rates
3.3.3.5. If the two-year target is missed then three years after the release of the optional star
rating 25 percent of cars sold over the first three years must have been equipped with thesafety pack, either as standard equipment or as an option.
3.3.3.6. If the five-year target is missed then six years after the release of the optional star
rating 55 percent of cars sold over the second three years must have been equipped with thesafety pack, either as standard equipment or as an option.
3.3.3.7. Failure to meet the fitment rates identified in 3.3.3.5 or 3.3.3.6 will result in theoptional star rating being removed from Euro NCAP’s website and the manufacturer being
precluded from making any further use of the optional rating for that specific model. EuroNCAP may exclude the manufacturer from making use of the dual rating for futureassessments.
3.3.4. Test Variant
3.3.4.1. The variant tested for the optional rating shall be the same as identified for the baserating (section 3). This includes engine, transmission, body style and hand of drive.

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4. Vehicle Selection and Status of Test Vehicle
To ensure that the rating remains credible at all times, it is essential that all vehicles selected
for testing are exactly the same as those vehicles offered for sale to consumers. Ideally thismeans that test vehicles are taken from the production line. Many times, however, this isconflicting with the manufactures’ time line where ratings must be available at model release
date and small adjustments to production are made during ramp up of production. The
following provides guidance on these matters.
4.1.

Status of Test Vehicle

4.1.1. The vehicles tested must be of the same production status as for those offered for sale
to consumers at or before the time of publication of the new result.
4.1.2. The method of procuring test vehicles of the correct specification will be chosen by
Euro NCAP. The vehicles selected for testing must be: Fully type-approved (i.e. a certificate of conformity should be available for thevehicles, if requested) From serial production.
 Capable of being legally sold, new or in the aftermarket, to the general public
without modification
Note: New models are generally produced in small numbers during the early stagesof production (“ramp-up”), leading to full-volume production within a few months.
Vehicles from such early production phases are acceptable, so long as they comply
with the requirements set out above.
4.1.3. At least three seats are required for Whiplash testing, which may be procured
separately from the vehicle. Where unrealistically high charges or long lead times for theselected test seats are quoted by the manufacturer, Euro NCAP is given discretion to refrainfrom testing seats. In such cases, the Whiplash score will be set to zero.
4.1.4. The manufacturer may advise Euro NCAP that a vehicle scheduled for testing will
have certain safety components changed prior to the expected publication date. Where thishappens, the updated components may be retrofitted to the test vehicles, provided thefollowing requirements are met:
 The components are installed to the same standard as used in production.
 The components are manufactured using production procedures. Prototype
components are not allowed.
 Where the component has to be certified by an approval authority, suchcertification has been carried out.
 Once a vehicle has been tested, assessment and testing of modified components
are subject to the requirements of section 5.2.
4.2.

Fitment of Non-Standard Components

4.2.1. The fitment of prototype components, or any parts not fitted to mainstream production
vehicles, is not allowed, whether safety related or not. Where non-standard or prototype
components are thought to have been fitted to any of the vehicles tested (e.g. ‘sample’ or‘prototype’ labels are found during inspection), the following will apply:
4.2.1.1. Selection using the 20 VIN method will not be allowed for the next two vehicle modelsof the manufacturer concerned. Selection by other methods will be required (select fromdealer stock, plant visit etc.) and will be done no sooner than [1] month after customers firsttake delivery of cars.
4.2.1.2. Euro NCAP may carry out an audit of the production plant to understand the cause of
the anomalous parts or labels.

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4.2.1.3. The manufacturer may be required to sponsor one or more audit tests. These will be
repeats of at least one of the main impact tests using vehicles known to have come frommainstream production. The results of the tests will be compared with the original results.
Guidance regarding audit testing and the use that is made of the results are given in section
4.2.2.
4.2.1.4. The star rating will not be published until the results of the audit test are known. If
this delays publication of the rating to the following calendar year, the manufacturer will be
required to sponsor any additional or repeat testing that may be needed to generate a valid
rating for that following year.
4.2.1.5. Where the manufacturer does not agree to sponsor testing of the standard
specification vehicle, its testing may be sponsored by Euro NCAP and the presence of
prototype components will be published.
4.2.2. It is not possible to foresee every circumstance in which Euro NCAP may need torepeat tests in order to confirm results and vehicle ratings. The following is intended as a
guide to when audit tests are likely to be required and the use that will be made of the resultsof those tests.
4.2.3. The need for an audit test depends on the method by which the original test vehicles
were obtained. Where cars were originally selected from a list of VINs supplied by the
manufacturer or selected in person from a limited number of pre-prepared cars, the need foran audit test will be considered high in any of the circumstances outlined in 4.2.1. Where cars
were bought anonymously from dealers, the need for an audit test will be considered low. In
other cases, consideration will be given to the methods used and the possibility of interferenceby the OEM with the test vehicles.
4.2.4. Audit tests may be required even if the labels found are not on safety-specificcomponents. The presence of labels stating, for example, ‘prototype’ or ‘sample’ throws into
question the production status of the vehicles, regardless of the specific components on which
they are found.
Where labels have been found on a safety-related component, an audit test may be required
for the crash configuration to which that component relates (e.g. frontal impact tests where alabel has been found on the driver’s frontal airbag). However, it may also be necessary to
perform audit tests in other configurations not directly related to the safety function of thelabelled component if, for example, there is reason to question the broader production statusof the original test vehicles.
4.2.5. Cars for audit testing will be obtained either From a dealer From pre-built stock vehicles (e.g. at a distribution centre) From a production line
All cars must be transported immediately to the test laboratory
4.2.6. Where possible, the test laboratory for the audit test shall be the same one used forthe original tests
4.2.7. Where an audit test has been performed, the results will be compared with those of theoriginal tests. The following will apply: The original test results will be used if the audit test shows: Scores for all adult body-regions and relevant child dynamic scores no poorer
than 0.85 x original test result and No differences in structural behaviour or safety equipment performance (suchas door opening, incorrect airbag deployment etc.) from the original test.
 It will be concluded that a non-production component was used in the original test
and the results of the audit test will be published where the audit test shows:

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 A score for an adult body-region relevant to the suspect component (or the
relevant child dynamic score) less than 0.85 x original test result and all othervalues are within 15% of the original or Differences in relevant structural behaviour or relevant safety equipment
performance (such as door opening, incorrect airbag deployment etc.) from theoriginal test.
 Where the score for an adult body-region relevant to the function of the suspectcomponent (or the relevant child dynamic score) is within 85% of the original test
result but an unrelated body region differs by more than 15%, or where a safetyissue has been found which is or is not related to the original reason for the audit
test, the requirements governing re-testing will be applied (section 5.2). Where amanufacturer does not comply with these rules, the result of the audit test will be
published. Where a manufacturer chooses to improve the performance of thevehicle, publication of a result will be postponed until the modified vehicle can betested and a valid rating established.

5.

Testing, Retesting and Reassessment

5.1.

Testing

5.1.1. Euro NCAP will be ultimately responsible for choosing the test laboratory for all
vehicles. A vehicle will be tested at the laboratory chosen by the sponsor unless there arecompelling reasons to do otherwise. Such reasons could include cost or operational factors
influencing the timing of publication or over-use of a single laboratory by the same
manufacturer.
5.1.2. All tests will be carried out according to the latest protocols published on Euro NCAP’s
website. The laboratory is responsible for accurate application of the protocols and keeping
test equipment up to date.
5.1.3. Before each test, the laboratory must check that vehicles and other components
scheduled for testing meet the vehicle test specification (see 3.2). Testing of vehicles that do
not meet the test specification may invalidate the result and lead to retesting at the expense of
the laboratory.
5.2.

Retesting

5.2.1. In some cases, a retest may be requested by Euro NCAP, the laboratory or
manufacturer. A re-test may be allowed under the following circumstances:
5.2.1.1. Where a test does not meet Euro NCAP Test Protocol requirements it will be
repeated unless the failure does not materially affect the rating of the vehicle.
 Where the failure is the responsibility of the test laboratory, they shall be
responsible for carrying out the retest without charge.
 The responsibility for funding the replacement vehicle and components is that of
the test’s sponsor.
5.2.1.2. Modification and re-testing is allowed if an Unexpected or Undesired Vehicle
Performance problem is identified at a Euro NCAP test carried out not later than four months
from the time when public customers first take delivery of their vehicles. In such case, thefollowing conditions must be met for a re-test to be allowed:
 The manufacturer has identified deficiencies and can satisfy Euro NCAP andinspectors that the proposed modifications will significantly improve safety.

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 The improvement will be incorporated in all production vehicles by the time EuroNCAP publishes its assessment of the vehicle.
 By an official recall or by equivalent market action acceptable to Euro NCAP, themanufacturer makes provision to update all vehicles already in use in the Europe.
This includes vehicles which have not been offered for sale to the public but havebeen provided on loan to the press, management etc. The recall must be specificto the identified problem and must be initiated by the time the assessment ispublished.
 The results of the retested vehicles are available prior to the vehicle being firstoffered for sale in the European Union.
 Publication of the vehicle’s assessment is not delayed by more than 3 months.
 The manufacturer funds all work related to the retest.
Note: Where there is a failure, or partial failure, of safety related equipment, EuroNCAP may withhold publication of the test results, pending investigation of the
failure.
5.3.

Reassessment

5.3.1. A vehicle model which has previously been rated may be reassessed under one orother of the following circumstances:
5.3.1.1. A manufacturer wishes to have the vehicle reassessed to reflect changes which havebeen made to the performance of the vehicle. Reassessment in such circumstances isallowed if:
 The result of the vehicle has not been re-calculated in the same calendar year; The manufacturer can demonstrate that there has been a significant improvement
to safety, either through better performance (e.g. improved knee protection or
airbag response) or to fitment (e.g. standardisation of ESC)
5.3.1.2. A vehicle’s original rating is no longer considered valid as a result of an annual or
facelift review (see Application of Star Ratings protocol) or because the original rating is morethan six years old. In such cases, the vehicle becomes eligible for reassessment by a EuroNCAP member, the vehicle manufacturer or third party.
Note: A vehicle model is not eligible for reassessment if, at all annual and facelift
reviews, its original rating is considered valid for the current vehicle.

6.

Publication of Results

6.1.

General Guidelines

6.1.1. Under normal circumstances, once the vehicle has been tested and the data are
available and verified, the results will be published by Euro NCAP. Manufacturers will not beable to propose further modifications leading to a retest and may not make use of the star
rating, or make reference to it, until the result has been published by Euro NCAP
6.1.2. The rating with the details of the test vehicle specification will be published as part of
the normal release schedule on the date agreed with the sponsor. Euro NCAP will publish thebase star rating (and optional rating if available) and additional information (percentage
scores, coloured men etc.) on its website.
6.1.3. An optional rating must be published at the same time as the base rating, using theprotocols relevant to the assessments in the year of publication (i.e. both ratings must carry

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the ‘date-stamp’ of the year when the rating was done). This means that an optional rating
cannot be requested after the publication of a base rating has occurred.
6.1.4. Euro NCAP will inform the vehicle manufacturer in advance of the target date forpublication of the result on the website. In general, this date will be no later than two months
from the date of arrival of test vehicles at the laboratory.
6.1.5. Where a vehicle has been retested, the following applies:
6.1.5.1. The rating will, if possible, be published as originally intended. If the original release
date cannot be met, the result will be published as soon as possible after the originallyintended launch date (but no more delayed than 3 months).
6.1.5.2. If all the above conditions are met and Euro NCAP is satisfied that no member of the
public will receive a vehicle of the specification originally tested, Euro NCAP will not publish
information about the problem identified or the manufacturer’s actions. Where specific market
action has been required by the manufacturer a part of the retest, Euro NCAP reserves theright to bring this to the attention of the consumer at the time of the publication of the result.
6.1.6. Where a vehicle has been re-assessed, the following applies:
6.1.6.1. The rating will be published as part of the normal release schedule.
6.1.6.2. The result of a reassessment will be published alongside the original rating, with a
VIN identifying the first vehicle produced to which the new assessment applies. The original
rating will identify, by means of a VIN, the final vehicle to which it applied.
6.1.7. Where an audit test is required, the following applies:
6.1.7.1. A vehicle’s rating will not be published until the results of the audit test (including
inspection) are known and demonstrate good correlation with the original test results.
6.1.7.2. The rating will be based on the original test data and published as part of the normal
release schedule if the results of the audit test demonstrate that the performance difference is
acceptable.
6.1.7.3. If the differences between the results of the audit test differ unacceptably from theoriginal results, Euro NCAP may require that all relevant tests are repeated on vehicles whose
production status is certain, and publication of the rating will be delayed.
6.1.7.4. Euro NCAP reserves the right to publish information about the presence of nonstandard or prototype components.
6.2.

Recalculation

6.2.1. Euro NCAP gives manufacturers the exclusive right to update a vehicle’s rating to alater assessment regime (year) than was originally applied, based on the original test data.
6.2.2. The following conditions apply for recalculation:
6.2.2.1. Euro NCAP’s assessment scheme has changed with respect to the original rules
under which the car was rated.
6.2.2.2. The safety performance of the vehicle to which the new rating applies has notchanged compared to the original tested model.
6.2.2.3. The original test data are not older than 3 years.
6.2.2.4. The vehicle to which the new rating applies will be on sale for at least two more
years.
6.2.3. The requirements (threshold, balance values etc.) applicable to the year ofrecalculation will be used to recalculate the result.
6.2.4. By requesting a recalculation, the manufacturer agrees to sponsor the required tests.
6.2.5. Re-calculation of a vehicle result will preclude a reassessment in the same year.

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If the vehicle has an optional rating, both base and optional rating must be recalculated. The
original safety Pack fitment requirements will continue to apply.
6.2.6. The deadline for request to recalculate a vehicle rating shall be December 1 of thepreceding year, allowing time for Euro NCAP to schedule additional tests, if required.
6.2.7. The results of recalculations will be released at the first opportunity in the year.

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7. Appendix
Definitions
Model Range

All the variants (i.e. all body styles, engine and equipment grades)
available across Europe under a common model name ordesignation

Minimum Percentage

The lowest proportion of sales, expressed as a percentage, which
an item of safety equipment must meet as standard equipment to be
included as part of the Basic Level equipment.

Model release date

The date set by the manufacturer at which a new vehicle is first being
offered to consumers in any part of Europe.

Reassessment

A new assessment by Euro NCAP of a vehicle which has previously
been rated but has undergone a significant safety update. The reassessed rating is based on all requirements (Minimum Percentage
for Basic Level equipment, threshold, balance values etc.)
applicable at the time of reassessment. Depending on the changes
made to the vehicle, it may not be necessary to repeat all aspects of
the assessment. The results of a re-assessment are publishedalongside the original rating.

Recalculation

The updating of a vehicle’s rating to a later assessment regime than
was originally applied where the vehicle’s safety performance has
not changed. The recalculated rating is based on all requirements(Minimum Percentage for Basic Level equipment, threshold,balance values etc.) applicable at the time of recalculation.
Additional tests may or may not be necessary, but the exercise
utilizes results already obtained and applies the updated
requirements to them.

RetestA repeat of one or more parts of a vehicle’s assessment which
replaces the original result. The original invalid result is not
published by Euro NCAP.

Safety Equipment

That equipment which is overtly aimed at improving safety. It
includes but is not necessarily limited to: Restraint systems,
including head restraints, child restraints and anchorages; Knee andleg protection; Breakaway pedal arrangements; Pedestrian friendly
devices (unless they are only required for particular engine
compartment packages); Seat belt reminder systems, Safetymarking/labels
andswitches.
Note: It does not include: Engine/transmission volume; Road
wheel/tyre size, Sun roof, etc.

Variant

A unique combination of body style, engine and equipment grade or
specification.

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