EUROPEAN NEW CAR ASSESSMENT PROGRAMME(Euro NCAP)ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL – CHILD OCCUPANT PROTECTION
Version 6.4.1
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Copyright ©Euro NCAP - This work is the intellectual property of Euro NCAP. Permission is granted forthis 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 ofEuro NCAP. To disseminate otherwise or to republish requires written permission from Euro NCAP.

EUROPEAN NEW CAR ASSESSMENT PROGRAMME (Euro NCAP)
Table of Contents
1

INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................... 1

2

CHILD PROTECTION ASSESSMENT .............................................................................. 2
2.1

3

4

5

6

7

8

Manufacturer’s Recommendation .............................................................................................2

INSTALLATION OF CHILD RESTRAINTS..................................................................... 4
3.1

Top Pick List and Recommended Seats.....................................................................................4

3.2

Installation Matrix.......................................................................................................................4

3.3

Assessment of Problem-Free Installation & Requirements for all CRS.................................6

3.4

Requirements for seat belt mounted CRSs ...............................................................................8

3.5

Requirements for ISOFIX CRS ...............................................................................................11

3.6

CRS Installed Using Additional Tethers, Straps and Support Legs .....................................13

3.7

CRS Installation Scoring...........................................................................................................14

DYNAMIC ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................. 17
4.1

Ejection .......................................................................................................................................17

4.2

Head Contact with the Vehicle .................................................................................................17

VEHICLE BASED ASSESSMENTS .................................................................................. 20
5.1

Provision of Three-point Seat Belts..........................................................................................20

5.2

Gabarit Installation on all Passenger Seats .............................................................................20

5.3

Three Simultaneous Use Seating Positions ..............................................................................22

5.4

ISOFIX Usability .......................................................................................................................22

5.5

Two or more Largest ISOFIX Positions ..................................................................................23

5.6

Passenger Airbag Warning Marking and Disabling ..............................................................24

5.7

Integrated Child Restraints ......................................................................................................26

TWO SEATERS AND VEHICLES WITH LIMITED REAR SPACE ........................... 27
6.1

Vehicles with only Two Seats ....................................................................................................27

6.2

Vehicles with Limited Rear Space ...........................................................................................28

SCORING AND VISUALISATION ................................................................................... 30
7.1

Scoring ........................................................................................................................................30

7.2

Child Protection Assessment Points Table (Normal and Limited Rear Space) ...................30

7.3

Child Protection Assessment Points Table (No Rear Seats) ..................................................31

REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................... 32

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APPENDIX I ................................................................................................................................. 33
APPENDIX II ................................................................................................................................ 34

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EUROPEAN NEW CAR ASSESSMENT PROGRAMME (Euro NCAP)ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL – CHILD OCCUPANT PROTECTION

1INTRODUCTION

Euro NCAP has carried out a child occupant safety assessment since its very first test to ensurethat manufacturers take responsibility for the children travelling in their vehicles. In November
2003, Euro NCAP introduced a child occupant protection rating to provide clearer information for
consumers about the results of these tests. As part of this assessment, Euro NCAP has used 18
month old and 3 year old sized dummies, placed in manufacturers ‘recommended’ child seats, inthe frontal and side impact tests. As well as studying the results from the impact tests, EuroNCAP verified the clarity of instructions on child seat and vehicle as well as the seat installationin the vehicle to ensure that the child seat could be fitted safely and securely. In 2009, the childscore became integral part of the overall rating scheme but the technical assessment remained thesame.
Starting from 2013, the assessment of child safety is extended by an installation check of a
selection of popular, well performing seats available in Europe. This will assess the vehicle’s
ability to safely and correctly accommodate a broader range of CRS instead of a single
combination of recommended CRS and car. For this purpose, a so-called ‘top pick’ list is
populated with widely available, well performing child seats that represent most common types of
products available on the European market. The particular CRS included on the ‘top pick’ list are
published on Euro NCAP’s website and will be reviewed every 2 years. The ‘top pick’ list may be
extended to include manufacturer’s recommended seats and/or regionally popular seats.
This protocol contains several references to i-Size seating positions. Vehicles will qualify for any
i-Size related rewards provided the relevant i-Size specifications detailed in Regulations 14, 16
and 129 are met. Further details of the i-Size requirements are contained in the relevant sectionsof this protocol. From the 1st January 2015, only fully i-Size complaint vehicles will be rewardedin the relevant vehicle based assessments.
DISCLAIMER: Euro NCAP has taken all reasonable care to ensure that the information
published in this protocol is accurate and reflects the technical decisions taken by theorganisation. In the unlikely event that this protocol contains a typographical error or any otherinaccuracy, Euro NCAP reserves the right to make corrections and determine the assessment andsubsequent result of the affected requirement(s).

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CHILD PROTECTION ASSESSMENT

This protocol defines how protection for children is assessed in Euro NCAP. There are three areasof Child Protection that are assessed; the requirements for each are detailed in the following
sections. All contribute to the overall child protection rating, the assessments are:

Installation of child restraints (Section 3)
Dynamic performance (Section 4)
Vehicle based assessments (Section 5)

A number of popular child seats will be used to assess vehicle to CRS compatibility and Q Series
dummies representing 1½ year old and 3 year old children will assess dynamic performance. The
protocol is applicable to all classes of vehicles currently assessed by Euro NCAP, including
vehicles where there is no rear bench or where there is limited space for carrying CRS on the rearseats.
Dummy response data will be recorded in the frontal impact and side impact tests. Two Q series
crash dummies, representing a 1½ year old and 3 year old child are placed in child seats
recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. For the intermediate period until testing with taller
dummies will start, the dynamic assessment remains focused on head, neck and chest only.
During a post-crash vehicle inspection, the car will be assessed on aspects such as labelling,
airbag disabling, ISOFIX usability, i-Size readiness and more. The scores achieved in the threemain categories (fitment of CRS, dynamic performance and vehicle based assessments) are
combined to calculate the total Child Occupant Protection Score.
The Euro NCAP inspection manual contains examples of good and bad practices according to therequirements of this protocol.
Cars with limited or no rear space such as two seaters do not allow a typical dynamic assessment
using dummies in the rear. For these classes of vehicles, special provisions have been made to theprotocol.
2.1

Manufacturer’s Recommendation

The principle behind the Child Occupant Protection assessment is that children should be as
equally well protected as adults in the event of a crash. The overall responsibility of the vehicle
manufacturer is reflected in the recommendation that the vehicle manufacturer must makeregarding the CRS to be used in the full scale tests at the start of the process.
2.1.1

The vehicle manufacturer must recommend two CRS for use in dynamic assessments.
Of those two recommended seats, one CRS must be suitable for 18 month and one for3 year old children. The compatibility of the recommended CRS with the vehicle will
be separately assessed as part of the installation check. In order to be used in the
dynamic tests, both CRS must meet the installation requirements detailed in Section 3
on the two rear outboard seating positions.

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2.1.2The vehicle manufacturer is given the choice to choose appropriate seats from the listof pre-selected seats used for the installation check (the ‘top pick’ list, see Section3.1), using the installation mode identified on the list. Alternatively, the vehicle
manufacturer may recommend different seats (with installation modes). In both cases,
the following preconditions must be met for the manufacturer recommended CRS to
be accepted:

2.1.3

The CRS must be recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, to their customers, in all
countries of the European Union, where the vehicle is sold.

2.1.4

Where the recommended CRS are not on the top-pick list, the CRS must be available
for purchase by the public from dealers, in all countries of the European Union wherethe vehicle is sold. The CRS system must be available to the public within 5 working
days of an order being made.

2.1.5

The recommended CRS must have been fully type approved and evaluated by the ETC(or similar) programme (inc. dynamic tests) and obtain a ‘good’ performance rating.
This is the case for CRS on the top pick list. For CRS not on the top pick list, it is thevehicle manufacturer’s responsibility to provide evidence of ‘good performance’ at thetime of CRS recommendation, following the procedure described in Technical Bulletin
012. For Integrated CRS no ETC testing is necessary and the performance will beshown in Euro NCAP crash tests.

2.1.6

Recommendation of ‘OEM rebranded’ CRS that are already on the top pick list can be
accepted. Information will be added to the results to highlight the equivalency between
original top pick list seat and ‘OEM rebranded’ seats to the consumer.

2.1.7

Where a vehicle is equipped with an integrated seat(s) covering 18 month and/or one 3
years old children on the rear outboard test positions, the integrated seat will be used in
the dynamic tests. Integrated seats will be used even if they are optional equipment.
However, they must be standard equipment in order to gain points in the vehicle based
assessments (Section 5).


2.1.8

Where a vehicle is equipped with only one integrated restraint on either outboard
position covering both or only one of two child ages, the integrated seat will be
used only where applicable. An alternative installable CRS must be recommended
for the case where the integrated seat is not suitable for the age of the dummy ofchoice.

Where no or no appropriate recommendation is provided, for example where therequirements of Section 3 are not met, Euro NCAP will select possible seats from the
top pick list, or in case this is not feasible, acquire fitting seats for use in the full scale
tests. Additional preconditions exist for vehicles equipped with two seats or have
limited space in the rear. Refer to Section 6 for further details.

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INSTALLATION OF CHILD RESTRAINTSEuro NCAP rewards vehicles that can accommodate a broad variety of child seats available on theEuropean market. For this purpose, a limited number of popular child seats are installed in thevehicle. All CRS selected for the Euro NCAP fitment tests have demonstrated good (crash test)
performance in leading independent consumer tests and are readily available in certain regions of
the EU-28. The groups and recommended installation modes of the CRS selected represent thosecommonly most observed on the market, including some universal and semi-universal seats. This
“top pick” list of CRS, how it is compiled and updated is explained in section 3.1 below.
3.1

Top Pick List and Recommended Seats

3.1.1

The child seats used for the fitment assessment are detailed in Euro NCAP Technical
Bulletin TB012. This list contains a sample of widely available, well performing childseats that represent most common types of products available on the European market.
The list will be checked annually and updated if seats are no longer available on themarket. Each update will occur at the start of the year preceding the year of
application. Euro NCAP does not assess or rate the child seats individually.

3.1.2

All CRS on the top pick list will be considered for installation in the vehicle. Where
the vehicle manufacturer has recommended CRS for dynamic testing that are not on
the above list, these will also be included in the fitment assessment using the
installation mode used in dynamic testing. The preconditions for acceptance of CRS
are listed in Section 2.1.

3.1.3

In addition to the above, selected seats available in local markets and rated as ‘good’performers can be used to extend the “top pick” list. Locally available CRS are only
allowed if not already covered by other seats on the top pick list. Placing these seats on
the “Extended Top Pick List” is exclusively done at the request of the sponsor at thetime of nomination of the vehicle and does not contribute toward the score. This is for
information only.

3.1.4

To be eligible for assessment and scoring, all semi-Universal and vehicle specific CRS
on the extended top pick list must be detailed on the approved vehicle list. Where thisis not the case, no award will be given for CRS installation of these seats. Exemptions
are based solely on the information in the vehicle handbook as specified in 3.2.3.
Information in other documents, such as the CRS approved vehicle list, will not betaken into account.

3.2
3.2.1

Installation Matrix
The score for Installation of Child Seats is based on the number of CRS from the fulllist that can be successfully installed in the vehicle considering all eligible seating
positions. Hence, before the assessment starts, the total number of passenger seating
positions in the vehicle must be identified including 1st, 2nd and 3rd row if available.
Where a vehicle is available with an optional 3rd row on any variant, the installationassessment will be based on a vehicle fitted with the optional seats.

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3.2.2

Provided that the CRS can be placed in the vehicle without problems (Section 3.3.1),
each CRS on the top pick list (including those recommended by the vehicle
manufacturer) will be fitted on each seating position, using the installation modes
identified in TB012. Semi-universal CRSs for which the car model is not identified on
the CRS reference list at the time of the 1-2-1 meeting will be included in theassessment but are not be eligible for scoring (Section 3.1.4)

3.2.3

Where the vehicle handbook exempts the use of a CRS category (Group 0-III; U, UF,..., ISO/R1,.. etc.) on a seating position according to Annex 17, Appendix 3 of ECERegulation 16, supplement 3 to the 06 series of amendments, this position-CRS
combination will not be considered in the CRS installation assessment (not eligible)1.
Exemptions are accepted provided that:

The vehicle handbook clearly details, in tabular format only, the CRS categories(universal and semi-universal) that are suitable or not suitable for installation foreach position. Where the tables are not present, the CRS installation will be
performed on all seating positions. It is acceptable for the table to be annexed in
the vehicle handbook or provided on a permanent website provided that clear
references are provided in the vehicle handbook.
Exemptions are based on the vehicle manufacturer’s legal obligation to provide
truthful advice on the suitability of each passenger seating position for the fittingof child restraint systems. Where there is any doubt, Euro NCAP may choose toinclude the exempted combination in the assessment.

3.2.4

Applying the above, the installation matrix is defined as shown in Table 1.

3.2.5

In practice, for the purpose of assessing the vehicle to child seat compatibility, it may
not be necessary to verify each eligible CRS-seating position combination. For
example, where for a given passenger seating position an integrated CRS is available(optional or standard fit), no installation check is required with the CRS of the agegroup covered by the integrated CRS.

3.2.6

Each passenger seating position must accommodate certain types and groups of top-pick
CRS. Where a particular seating position has been clearly exempted in the vehicle
handbook, only those positions that have NOT been exempted shall meet theserequirements. Where the conditions of this section are not met, the final CRS Installation
score, out of 12 points (Section 3.7), will be halved. The CRS are as follows:

3.2.6.1

Each non-exempted passenger seating position must be able to accommodate at least one
Universal top-pick group 0+ CRS and one Universal top-pick group I CRS.

3.2.6.2

Each non-exempted passenger seating position must be able to accommodate at least one
Semi-Universal top-pick group 0+ CRS and one Semi-Universal top-pick group I CRS, or
one Semi-Universal top-pick CRS covering both groups.

3.2.7

At least one CRS from the top pick list of each group (0+ - III) must be accommodated by

1

Exemptions will only apply to the CRS installation assessment; dynamic and vehicle based assessments will apply
to all relevant seating positions regardless of which seats have been exempted.

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the vehicle. Handbook exemptions are NOT accepted for this requirement. Where theconditions of this section are not met, the final CRS Installation score, out of 12 points(Section 3.7) will be halved.

Table 1. Example of top pick list exemptions

B = Belted, I = ISOFIX, L = Support leg, S = Strap/Top-tether

3.3

Assessment of Problem-Free Installation & Requirements for all CRS

All combinations of CRS and vehicle seat position will be subsequently checked by installing the
CRSs on all seating positions. If any outboard seating positions are identical (adult belts,
anchorages, etc) then installation may be performed on one side only, all other positions will beassessed. Where there is any asymmetry in a vehicle, including sliding doors, B-pillar position
etc. then all seating positions must be assessed individually.
CRS that use more than one installation mode or are equipped with anti rotation devices mustmeet the requirements of all applicable sections for a successful installation. For example, a CRS
using the adult belt AND ISOFIX must meet the full requirements of both Sections 3.4 and 3.5 fora successful installation. A CRS that uses the adult belt AND a support leg must meet the full
requirements of Section 3.4 and Section 3.6.

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The vehicle seating position is compatible with the CRS fitted as long as the following conditions
are met:3.3.1

Ease of installation in car

This assessment is of the vehicles ability to allow for easy installation of a range of different CRS
by evaluating its provision of sufficient space and access. This does not include fastening the CRS
to the vehicle, only positioning on the rear or front seat in preparation for fastening.
3.3.1.1 Initial vehicle settings
Installations on the rear seat:
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The front row seats shall initially be set in the Euro NCAP Frontal ODB impact test
position unless clearly instructed otherwise in the vehicle handbook.
If the vehicle has only 3 doors, then it is acceptable to utilise any ‘easy entry’ function tomove the front seat forward and allow access to the rear seats.
Vehicles with adjustable rear seats shall have the seat back angle and fore/aft set to the
mid in-use position and are to be used, unless clearly instructed otherwise in the vehicle
handbook. The flat folded position of a seat is not considered as an in use position. If themid position cannot be obtained due to notched adjustments, the next most vertical
position for the seat back or the next rearward position for fore/aft shall be used.
Head restraints shall be in the lowest/not in use position, unless clearly instructed
otherwise in the vehicle handbook.
Movable arm rests shall be set to the position recommended in the vehicle handbook.
Where there is no recommendation they shall be positioned so as not to interfere with the
CRS installation.
Where the front seat interacts with the steering wheel, for example with easy entry
functions, the steering wheel shall be set to mid/mid.

Installations on the front seat:The front seat(s) shall initially be set in the Euro NCAP Frontal ODB impact test
position unless instructed otherwise in the vehicle handbook.
The front seat adjustments shall remain the same for all further assessments. Where thevehicle handbook contains details of alternative front seat positions for individual CRS,
this alternative position will be used.
Head restraints shall be in the lowest position, unless clearly instructed otherwise in thevehicle handbook.
Movable arm rests shall be set to the not in use position or fully vertical.

3.3.1.2 CRS placement
Procedure:

Where necessary, ready the CRS for installation by lengthening straps and top-tethers sothey are accessible once the CRS is in place.
Pass the CRS through the nearest occupant entry door. Vehicles with moveable roofs
shall have the roof closed during this assessment. No other access routes shall be used,such as the rear hatch/boot.

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If the CRS cannot be easily placed in the vehicle due to the position of the front seat,adjust the front seat to allow CRS placement. Following this, the front seat should thenbe repositioned back to the handbook/initial position.
For CRSs that allow the child to be carried in the seat the orientation of the CRS may bechanged by up to 40 degrees about it axes (x, y,) is acceptable to enable the CRS to fit
into the vehicle. For CRSs that are not intended as carry-cots then any orientation may
be used to place the CRS in the vehicle.
Where the CRS contains multiple parts, e.g. base and seat, then both items may beinstalled sequentially and assessed in the same way.
For CRS that do not allow installation with the child in the CRS, there must be sufficientspace within the vehicle to allow an adult to place and child in the CRS. This will beassessed using the appropriate sized child dummy.

The vehicle meets the requirements if all of the following are met:
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

The CRS can be placed on the rear seats without excessive force, difficulty or interaction
with the door aperture.
After adjustment of the front seat, it does not prevent or interfere with correct placementof the CRS. An easy entry function may be used.
Where applicable, the easy entry function allows the front seat to return and lock in thesame seating position after placement of the CRS. If the easy entry function does not
return the front seat to the position mentioned in the handbook, it will be adjusted to andassessed in the handbook position.
If there is sufficient space within the vehicle for a child to be correctly placed in the CRS
and the child is not prevented from sitting normally in the CRS.

The vehicle would not meet the requirements if any of the following occur:
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3.4

The child seat or base does not individually fit through the door aperture.
The CRS cannot be placed in the vehicle.
The CRS must be rotated more than the permissible amount to enable placement or
where applicable.
An easy entry system does not allow the front seat to return and lock in the position
detailed in the handbook.
Vehicle structures prevent a child from being placed correctly in the CRS.
There is insufficient space within the vehicle to allow the child to occupy the CRS as
normal.
Requirements for seat belt mounted CRSs

3.4.1

Use of 3-point belts

3.4.1.1 Ease of fastening seatbelt
Procedure:Once placed in the vehicle, the CRS shall be positioned along the centreline of thechosen seating position.
Route the adult seatbelt around the CRS in accordance with the instructions on the CRS.

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Engage the buckle tongue into the buckle.
If necessary, some small movement of the CRS is permitted to expose the seat belt
buckle. This is limited to rotation of up to 20 deg about the x and z-axes or 50mm lateral
movement from the seat centreline.
For CRS that are not equipped with integral harnesses an appropriate sized dummy shallbe placed in the CRS during this procedure.

The vehicle meets the requirements if all of the following are met:The tongue can be engaged in the buckle with the use of only one hand and without theneed to reposition the CRS to enable access to the buckle, or the tongue can be engaged
using two hands to insert the buckle, where one supports the buckle, and the other isused to insert the tongue.
The adult seat belt adjacent to the assessed seating position does not prevent installationof the CRS or lead to any instability.
With the CRS installed, the three point belt on another seating position in that same row
should be capable of restraining one other occupant.

The vehicle would not meet the requirements if any of the following occur:The belt cannot be buckled due to insufficient belt length.
The belt length is such that the CRS is not in the correct position on the seat.
The CRS has to be moved or rotated more than prescribed above to allow access to thebuckle, e.g. the buckle is positioned underneath the CRS.
The installation of the CRS means that an adult cannot occupy another seating positionon that row, for example due to limited space or interference with the adult belt system.

3.4.1.2 Ease of tightening belt (Ease of operating the lock-off clip)
This assessment is of the vehicles ability to be able to correctly restrain the CRS using the adultbelt systems.
Procedure:With the seat belt buckled and belt routed correctly around the CRS, tension shall be
introduced into the adult seatbelt by pulling on the diagonal section of the belt in the
direction of the reel.
Tension in the lap section is established by pulling the diagonal section of the belt withno more than 150N force. The tension shall be applied to the diagonal part of the belt
before it passes through any upper belt guide or lock off.
Seatbelt load cells will be required for this installation.
For seats that do not have an integral harness, a child dummy of the appropriate size
shall be placed in the CRS during this process.

The vehicle meets the requirements if all of the following are met:When 150N is applied to the diagonal section of the adult belt, the slack in all parts of
the lap section is removed.
The CRS is held firmly against the seat back and seat base by the adult belt.

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Any movement of the CRS base or back must result in increasing tension within the belt
system, e.g. with forward movement of the CRS. The belt reel shall be prevented fromspooling out during this check.
Where applicable, the seat belt must restrain the dummy and the seat correctly.

The vehicle would not meet the requirements if any of the following occur:
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3.4.2

When slack has been removed from the belt system, the buckle tongue stops interferewith the belt lock off.
It is not possible to remove the slack in any part of the lap section.
Additional tethers and/or support leg

Where the chosen CRS is equipped with an additional tether or support leg apply the relevant
assessment outlined in Section 3.6 before moving on to the next section.
3.4.3

Obstruction & Stability of the CRS

Procedure:
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The CRS shall be installed in the vehicle with the seat belt buckled and any tethers or
support legs attached as per the previous steps. The largest appropriate P or Q dummy
shall also be installed in the CRS.
Any comfort adjustments on the CRS shall be changed e.g. incline, recline etc.
Check any contact points between the CRS, dummy and vehicle.
The CRS shall be rocked from side to side about the x axis over a 10° to 15° arc. No
other restraint shall be placed on the CRS during rocking.
The CRS shall be pulled toward the front of the vehicle and twisted about the z axis.
The CRS shall be returned to the initial position with the belt tightened as per Section
3.4.1.2 and a force of 100N shall be applied perpendicular to the CRS in the y direction
at the shoulder level of the dummy. This assessment will not be applied to the Group 0+
CRS.
The CRS shall be returned to the initial position with the belt tightened as per Section
3.4.1.2 and a force of 100Nshall be applied perpendicular to the CRS in the y direction ata small distance above the vehicle seat. This assessment will not be applied to the Group
0+ CRS.

The vehicle meets the requirements if all of the following are met:The vehicle interior can accommodate installation of the CRS in all orientations andadjustments without interaction with other parts of the vehicle. E.g. booster seats withadjustable head restraints must not be restricted by the rear head restraints or C-pillars.
The presence of head restraints does not prevent correct installation of the CRS and does
not lead to significant forward rotation of the CRS or create lateral instability.
Contact between the CRS and vehicle interior is permitted provided that the CRS iscorrectly installed, stable and is not rotated by more than 5 degrees.
The measured backrest angle of the CRS does not exceed 90 degrees. This can bemeasured using the device described in APPENDIX I .

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The vehicle interior provides stable support for the CRS in the selected installation
modes and adjustments. E.g. the CRS back or base tensioning system must be in contact
with the vehicle seat base and seat back cushions.
The CRS sits flat on the seat base cushion and, for forward facing CRS, is supported by
the seat back and/or head restraint.
With the load applied to the CRS the rotation about the X axis does not exceed 20
degrees and the CRS remains secured and has a tendency to return back to the original
position.
As any load is applied, the tension in the belt system increases with the displacement of
the CRS.

The vehicle would not meet the requirements if any of the following occur:
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3.5

The CRS does not sit correctly on the seat base cushion or is not supported by the seatback including head restraint.
The vehicle interior can accommodate installation of the CRS with only limited
adjustments of the CRS i.e. tilt or adjustable backrests cannot be used due to interference
from the vehicle.
The vehicle interior encroaches into the space in which the child dummy sits resulting inany contact between the dummy head and legs. For example, where the roof is too low
or the knees or tibia are against the back of the front seat. Contact with the toes or feet is
acceptable.
Any part of the vehicle interior, including bolsters, arm rests, pillars obstruct the CRS or
prevents a particular adjustment from being made. E.g. C-pillar, roof or rear headrestraints prevent correct installation of CRS.
With the appropriate child dummy installed, the size of the car limits the possible agegroups that can be installed and exclusions are not made clear in the vehicle handbook.
There is limited support offered to the CRS through lack of contact with the supporting
structures, e.g. large side bolsters prevent the CRS from sitting flat on the seat base; orwhere applicable, poor or inadequate support is provided to CRS support legs.
When load is applied to the CRS it can move more than the allowed amount or the CRS
can move without increasing tension on the belt system.
Requirements for ISOFIX CRS

3.5.1

Insert and locking ISOFIX probes (only)This is an assessment of the ease of which the CRS ISOFIX probes can be engaged with thevehicle ISOFIX anchorages. It does not include assessment of any other tethers, straps or
supports.
Procedure:The position and orientation of the vehicle anchorages shall be identified and prepared
for CRS attachment. Simple, preparatory actions such as sliding a seat belt away fromthe anchorage, lifting a dedicated flap or covering to expose the anchorage are
permissible. Plastic guide funnels supplied with CRS will NOT be used.

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The CRS shall be placed on the seat centreline, the CRS ISOFIX probes shall be madeready for attachment to the vehicle.
The CRS and probes shall be pushed toward the anchorages until they are engaged,
keeping the CRS on the vehicle seat cushion. Lifting of the CRS from the seat base is notallowed, but some rotation/tilting of the CRS is permissible provided there is still contact
with the seat cushion. Separate support frames and bases (if available) may be lifted.
If necessary, 50mm of lateral movement of the CRS is permitted to allow engagementwith the ISOFIX anchorages. Where the CRS has movable ISOFIX probes, they may be
adjusted to facilitate engagement provide the CRS remains on the vehicle seat.
Where the adult belt prevents engagement with the ISOIFX anchorages, it is permissible
to reposition the belt to improve access provided that the belt does not have to be held inthat position.

The vehicle meets the requirements, once preparatory steps have been performed, if all of thefollowing are met:






Each vehicle ISOFIX anchorage can be easily engaged. For example, the anchorages areeasily accessible or they are equipped with permanent guidance (plastic funnel, fabricslit, etc) which helps the CRS ISOFIX probes align with the vehicle anchorages avoiding
any obstruction from the seat, such as the fabric or cushion etc.
For CRS where the probes are attached to the shell, the CRS can be attached to thevehicle by simply pushing it toward the anchorages, with some tilting but without anyother actions that are not described on the CRS itself.
If the CRS uses a separate support frame, the frame can be easily engaged onto the
ISOFIX anchorages without removing fabric, etc.
With the CRS installed, one of the three point belts on another seating position in thatsame row should be capable of restraining one other occupant.

The vehicle would not meet the requirements if any of the following occur:






3.5.2

If the anchorages cannot be engaged without further actions. For example, where the seatcushions have to spread apart by hand in order to create access to the anchorages.
The CRS has to be lifted off the seat cushion to allow engagement with the anchorages.
Lifting of separate support frames is permissible.
Any part of the seat or cushion prevents attachment of the CRS.
Where the CRS probes are clearly misaligned with the ISOFIX anchorages.
Where physical guidance is required, such as plastic funnels, they are not permanently
attached to the vehicle.
Additional tethers and/or support leg

Where the chosen CRS is equipped with an additional tether or support leg apply the relevant
assessment outlined in Section 3.6 before moving on to the next section.
3.5.3

Obstruction & Stability of the ISOFIX CRS

The principle here is identical to that of Section 3.4.3.
Procedure:
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




The CRS shall be installed in the vehicle with ISOFIX and any tethers or support legs
attached. A child dummy of the appropriate size shall also be installed in the CRS.
Any comfort adjustments on the CRS shall be changed e.g. incline, recline etc.
Check any contact points between the CRS and vehicle.
The CRS shall be pulled toward the front of the vehicle and twisted about the z-axis.

The vehicle meets the requirements if all of the following are met:







The vehicle interior can accommodate installation of the CRS in all orientations and seatadjustments without interaction with other parts of the vehicle. E.g. booster seats withadjustable head restraints must not be restricted by the rear head restraints or C-pillars.
The presence of head restraints must not lead to significant forward rotation of the CRS
or create lateral instability.
Contact between the CRS and vehicle interior is permitted provided that the CRS iscorrectly installed, stable and is not rotated by more than 5 degrees.
The measured backrest angle of the CRS does not exceed 90 degrees. This can to bemeasured using the device described in APPENDIX I.
The vehicle interior provides stable support for the CRS and its attachments with thevehicle in all installation modes and adjustments.
There is little or no rotation of the CRS about all axes.

The vehicle would not meet the requirements if any of the following occur:







3.6
3.6.1

The vehicle interior can accommodate installation of the CRS with only limited
adjustments of the CRS i.e. tilt or adjustable backrests cannot be used due to interference
from the vehicle.
The vehicle interior encroaches into the space in which the child dummy sits resulting inany contact between the dummy head and legs. For example, where the roof is too low
or the knees or tibia are against the back of the front seat. Contact with the toes or feet is
acceptable.
Any part of the vehicle interior, including bolsters, arm rests, pillars, obstructs the CRS
or prevents a particular adjustment from being made. E.g. C-pillar or rear head restraint
prevents correct installation of CRS.
The size of the car limits the possible age groups that can be installed and insufficient
exclusions are not made clear in the vehicle handbook.
There is limited support offered to the CRS through lack of contact with the supporting
structures. E.g. poor or inadequate support is provided to CRS support legs or the
support legs cannot be correctly positioned.
CRS Installed Using Additional Tethers, Straps and Support Legs
Ease of use of tethers & straps

This is an assessment of the ease of which the additional tether anchorages such as top tethers canbe engaged with the vehicle, where applicable.
Procedure:

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




Once the CRS has been attached to the vehicle with the belt or ISOFIX, any additional
tethers, straps and corresponding anchorages or brackets shall be readied. Simple,
preparatory actions such as lifting a dedicated flap or covering to expose the attachment
point are permissible.
The removal or repositioning of a parcel shelf or tonneau cover is allowable. It must be
possible to replace these parts once the CRS installation has been completed.
Head restraints may be repositioned or removed for CRS installation if instructed in thevehicle handbook.

The vehicle meets the requirements if all of the following are met:The top tether can be engaged and tightened easily, without having to carry out any
further actions other than already mentioned.
Where equipped, any additional tethers can be easily attached to the anchorage andtightened, for example the front seat rail or any other attachment points.

The vehicle would not meet the requirements if any of the following occur:



3.6.2

The strap(s) or tether(s) cannot be engaged without any further actions of vehicle
adjustments, e.g. it would not be acceptable to tilt the rear seat forward to be able toengage the tether.
The strap(s) or tether(s) pass through luggage or occupant space and prevent the use ofother parts of the vehicle, including rear seats. Top tether straps that remain above the
top of the vehicle seat back are acceptable.
The strap(s) or tether(s) obstruct the function or movement of other parts of the vehicle,
such as the front seats or luggage space.
Ease of use of support legs

This is an assessment of the vehicles ability to provide adequate support to any support legs,
where applicable.
The vehicle meets the requirements if all of the following are met:The vehicle provides sufficient space to allow stable placement of any support legs.
The support leg must be installed in the intended positions, for example fully locked out.
The area upon which a support rests must also be capable of providing adequate restraint
during an impact as described in ECE-TRANS-WP29-2012-53e and Regulation No 14.

The vehicle would not meet the requirements if any of the following occur:



3.7
3.7.1

Poor or inadequate support is provided to CRS support legs or where the support leg
cannot be positioned correctly due to interference from the front seat or other vehicle
structures.
The support leg cannot be fully locked out, or cannot provide the intended level of
support for any reason, such as due limited space.
CRS Installation Scoring
Each eligible CRS-seating position combination from the Installation Matrix will bedeemed successful when the requirements of Section 3 are met. Where an integrated

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seat is provided for a similar age group as the respective CRS on the top pick list, thecase will be treated as if the CRS-seating combination meets the requirements ofSection 3. Where the requirements of Section 3 are not met, the CRS-Seating position
combination is considered as a fail.
3.7.2

The score for each individual CRS on the installation matrix will be calculated by
dividing the number of successful installations in the vehicle by the total number of
eligible positions in which it was fitted.
The installation score CRSi =Ti = Total number of eligible positions in the vehicle for the CRSi ,Fi = Number of failed installations, and where i = 1, ..., M; the total number of CRS
on the top pick list (with or without manufacturer’s additions) .

3.7.3

Where the total number of eligible seating positions for any CRS equals zero, this CRS
will not be taken into account in the assessment and will be shown as ‘Exempt’.

3.7.4

Separate points will be given for fitment of the CRS from each category as follows:
Universal CRS
Semi-universal CRS
OEM Recommended CRS

5 points
5 points
2 points

3.7.5

The Universal CRS score is calculated by taking the average of the CRSi scores of all
Universal seats on the original top pick list (excluding those exempted for all seating
positions) and applying the percentage to 5 points; the Semi-universal CRS score is
calculated by taking the average of the CRSi scores of all Semi-universal seats on the
top pick list (excluding those exempted for all seating positions) and applying thepercentage to 5 points.

3.7.6

The OEM Recommended CRS score is calculated by taking the average of the CRSi
scores of the two recommend seats and applying the percentage to 2 points. The
calculation is performed regardless whether the recommended CRS are taken from theoriginal top pick list or not.

3.7.7

The resulting point scores are expressed as numbers, with 3 decimal points. The total
score for CRS installation is the sum of the points for fitment of Universal, Semiuniversal and Recommended CRS (see Table 2).

3.7.8

The maximum available score for the installation assessment will be 12 points and isindependent on the number of seats on the top pick list and the division between
universal, semi-universal and recommended seats.

3.7.9

If there is no recommendation for CRS, the maximum available score for CRS fitment
will be 10 points.

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Table 2.

Example of CRS installation scoring (no OEM CRS recommended and points
halved based on 3.2.6)

Note: Red/fail means safety critical issues exist, 0 points awarded; Yellow/fail means a CRS canbe installed correctly but more actions are needed that do not meet the requirements of EuroNCAP and 0 points are awarded.

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4

DYNAMIC ASSESSMENT

The protection offered by the combination of vehicle and recommended CRS in the event of acrash is assessed by Q-series of child dummies in the full scale front and side impact test. Thissection is only applicable to vehicles equipped with rear seats; vehicles without rear seats shall beassessed according to Section 6.
4.1

EjectionIf the child dummy is ejected or partially ejected from the CRS at any time throughout the impact
including rebound, that CRS is awarded zero points for its dynamic performance in front and side
impact. If the CRS is partially or wholly unrestrained by any of the vehicle interfaces at any timethroughout the impact including rebound, that CRS is awarded zero points for its dynamic
performance in front and side impact. The vehicle interfaces for ISOFIX restraints are the two
ISOFIX anchorages, top tether anchorage or any other means of rotation limiting device such as asupport leg resting on the floor. Seat belt lock-offs, tethers, straps or any other attachments which
are specifically used to anchor the CRS to the vehicle will also be penalised if their failure
presents a risk of total or partial ejection of the child or child restraint. Ejection is an unusual andhighly undesirable situation. The idea of “partial ejection” has been included to allow Euro NCAP
to deal with situations where the dummy is only partly held within the restraint, such as: by a footunder the impact shield. Where the child dummy and CRS are fully restrained throughout the
impact, points are awarded as given below.
CONCEPT: The child should be held securely in the restraint and not be ejected from therestraint.

4.2

Head Contact with the Vehicle

4.2.1

If there is head contact with any part of the vehicle at any time throughout the impact
including rebound, the CRS containing that dummy is awarded zero points for its
head performance, in that test. This will reduce the maximum achievable number ofpoints in that test to 4 points (neck and chest). Otherwise, points are awarded as given
below.

4.2.2

Frontal Impact

If the Q1½ dummy is seated in a forward facing child restraint, the frontal impact head and neckscores will be given a default score of 0 points regardless of the dynamic performance.

4.2.2.1 Head Contact with the CRS
Contact with the CRS is defined by either:a) Direct evidence of contactb) Peak resultant acceleration:

Q1½  80g
Q3  96g

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In the absence of contact:
Q1½ (RWF only) and Q3 are awarded 4 points
In the presence of contact, the score is based on the Head Resultant Acceleration, 3msec
exceedence. Hard contacts occurring during the head rebound will not be considered.
Q1½ (RWF only)

4 points  72g;

0 points  88g

Q3

4 points  87g;

0 points  100g

Note: Between limit values, a sliding scale will be used, for this and other parameters.
4.2.2.2 Head Excursion (Forward Facing CRS)
Where possible the maximum forward excursion of the head, relative to the Cr point, is estimated.
If the forward excursion cannot be estimated, it will be deemed to be  549mm; otherwise thepoints will be based on the following:
Q1½ (FWF only)

0 points

Q3

4 points  549mm;

0 points  550mm

4.2.2.3 Head Exposure (Rearward Facing CRS)
CONCEPT: The CRS shell must be in a position to provide some energy absorption between thechild’s head and an intruding object at all times during the forward excursion of the dummy.
Where the following requirements are complied with, the Q1½ and Q3 will be awarded 4 points.
a) No compressive loads shall be applied to the top of the head.
b) The head must remain fully contained within CRS shell, during the forward
movement of the dummy (i.e. the top of the head must not be exposed to thepossibility of direct contact with parts of the vehicle)
4.2.2.4 Neck Tension
The neck tension assessment is based on the parameter detailed below.
Upper neck Fz
Q1½ (RWF only) and Q3
Q1½ (FWF only)

2 points < 1.70kN; 0 points  2.62kN
0 points

4.2.2.5 Chest
The chest score is based on the chest resultant acceleration, as detailed below.
Chest resultant acceleration, 3msec exceedence
Q1½ 2 points  41g; 0 points  55g

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Q3 2 points  50g;

0 points  66g

4.2.2.6 Overall Dynamic Score for Frontal impact
The Overall Dynamic Score for the Frontal Impact is calculated as: Head Contact with the CRS (Section 4.3.1.1) Worst score from  Head Excursion (Section 4.3.1.2)
 4 points
 Head Exposure (Section 4.3.1.3)


+ Score from Neck Tension (Section 4.2.2.4)

2 points+ Score from Chest (Section 4.2.2.5)

2 points

4.2.3

Side Impact

4.2.3.1

Head Containment

If the head is not contained within the shell of the CRS at any time throughout the impact
including rebound, the CRS containing that dummy is awarded zero points. Otherwise, points areawarded as given in section 4.2.3.2 below.
“Contained” requires that some energy absorbing section of the side wing remains between thehead and a virtual intruding vertical plane, representing the side structure of the vehicle. There
must also be no fracturing of the CRS which might compromise the performance of the side wingof the CRS.
CONCEPT: The CRS shell must be in a position to provide some energy absorption between thechild’s head and an intruding vertical plane striking the seat from the struck side.
4.2.3.2 Head Contact with the CRS
Contact is defined by either:a) Direct evidence of contactb) Peak resultant acceleration:

Q1½  80g
Q3  80g

In the absence of contact:
Q1½ and Q3 are awarded 4 points
In the presence of contact, the score is based on the Head Resultant Acceleration, 3msec
exceedence.
Q1½ and Q3 4 points  72g;

0 points  88g

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5

VEHICLE BASED ASSESSMENTS

All vehicle based assessments will be only performed on vehicles that meet the relevant fitment
requirements at the time of assessment.
5.1

Provision of Three-point Seat Belts

If any passenger seat is not equipped with three-point lap and diagonal seatbelts, 0 points shall beawarded for the vehicle based assessments.
CONCEPT: All forward or rearward facing seats should be equipped with a three-point belt.
5.2

Gabarit Installation on all Passenger Seats

Where the 2nd row outboard seats are in compliance with the requirements in section 5.2.2 which
are based on UN ECE Regulation 16.06 [2], 1 point shall be awarded to the Child Protection
score. Where all other passenger seats are also in compliance with the requirements, an additional
1 point shall be awarded to the Child Protection score.
CONCEPT: The layout of the adult seat belt should ensure compatibility between the adult seatbelt and a Universal CRS.
CONCEPT: All possible seating positions should be capable of providing a good interface witha Universal child seat, secured by an adult seat belt.
5.2.1

To assess compliance, the Gabarit, as specified in APPENDIX II, shall be installed on
all passenger seats according to the following procedure:











Adjust the seat to its fully rearward and lowest position, the seat back to an angle of 25
degrees from the vertical or nearest fixed position and the upper seat belt anchorage to its
lowest position. Adjustable rear seats shall be set fully rearward.
If alternative seat, seat-back or safety-belt anchorage adjustments are to be used for
either front or rear seats when installing CRS, information about the alternative position
must be included in the Vehicle Handbook giving the information required in 5.2f).
Where this information is provided, set the seat to this position.
Place a cotton cloth on the seat-back and cushion.
Place the Gabarit on the vehicle seat.
Arrange the safety-belt strap around the fixture in approximately the correct position asshown in Figures 1 and 2, and then latch the buckle.
Ensure that the fixture is located with its centreline on the apparent centreline of theseating position ±25 mm with its centreline parallel with the centreline of the vehicle.
Ensure that all webbing slack is removed. Use sufficient force to remove the slack, do
not attempt to tension the webbing.
Push rearwards on the centre of the front of the fixture with a force of 100 N ±10 N,
applied parallel to the lower surface, and remove the force.
Push vertically downwards on the centre of the upper surface of the fixture with a forceof 100 N ±10 N, and remove the force.

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Figure 1
5.2.2

Figure 2

Requirements:a) With correct routing of the adult seat belt around the Gabarit, the base of the Gabarit
shall contact both the forward and rearward parts of the seat cushion upper surface.
If such contact does not occur due to the belt access gap in the Gabarit, this gap may
be covered in line with the bottom surface of the Gabarit.
b) The lap portion of the belt shall touch the fixture on both sides at the rear of the lap
belt path.
c) There shall be sufficient seat belt webbing to fit around the entire Gabarit whileallowing the contact between the Gabarit and both the forward and rearward parts ofthe seat cushion upper surfaces.
d) Once the belt is correctly routed around the fixture, it should be possible to draw afurther 150mm of belt webbing from the reel.
e) With the Gabarit in position and the buckle fastened, it must be possible to establish atension of at least 50 N in the lap section of the belt by external application of tension
in the diagonal section of the belt in the direction of the upper seat belt guide. This
may result in movement of the lower anchorages and/or buckles from theiranticipated ‘design position’. For example, the tension may cause the lap section of
the belt to slide between the rear of the seat base and bottom of the seat back, hence
shortening the length of the lap section. However, if this is considered to beachievable though ‘normal use’ then the assessment will be made with theanchorage/buckle in this position.

To achieve the 1 point for all seating passenger positions, the following requirements must be met
in addition to those detailed above:f) The Vehicle Handbook must indicate which passenger seats are suitable for use witha Group 0 and Group 1 Universal CRS (U). ([2], Annex 17, Appendix 3.)g) Where a passenger frontal airbag is fitted, the vehicle handbook must clearly indicatethat when the passenger airbag is active the seat is NOT suitable for RWF CRS as
well as indicating that it is suitable for universal CRS when the airbag has been
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disabled.
h) Where a passenger frontal airbag is fitted, it must be possible to activate anddeactivate the passenger airbag, either automatically or manually. The requirementsof Section 5.6 need not be met to qualify for this award, but airbag disabling
equipment must be standard.
5.3

Three Simultaneous Use Seating Positions

CONCEPT: Vehicles that provide three or more seating positions suitable for an i-Size CRS
should be rewarded.
5.3.1

Where the vehicle is provided with three seating positions that can simultaneously
accommodate any combination of top pick CRS covering Groups 0+ to III, 1 point
shall be awarded to the Child Protection score. A combination of three CRS will be
used to assess this, which may be proposed by the vehicle manufacturer.

5.3.1.1

If the assessment includes the front passenger seat and if a passenger frontal airbag isfitted, it must be possible to activate and deactivate the passenger airbag, either
automatically or manually for RWF CRS. The requirements of Section 5.6 need not
be met to qualify for this award, but airbag disabling equipment must be standard.
Manufacturer recommended combinations of CRS and seating positions will beconsidered where provided.

5.3.1.2

There must be sufficient space within the vehicle to accommodate simultaneously the
CRS and relevant sized child dummies. For example, if the handbook recommends
that the front passenger seat is moved fully rearward, it must not prevent the relevant
CRS and child from being installed on the seating position behind.

5.3.2

Where the vehicle is provided with three seating positions that can simultaneously
accommodate i-Size CRS, 1 point shall be awarded to the Child Protection score.

5.3.2.1 For results published prior to 1st January 2015, the vehicle must meet all i-Sizerequirements of Regulations No 14, 16 & 129 apart from labelling. i-Size labelling
requirements will not be needed until that time provided that the vehicle markings on all
three i-Size positions comply with the current ISOFIX and top-tether requirements
detailed in Section 5.4.

5.4

ISOFIX or i-Size Usability

5.4.1

Where two passenger seats are in compliance with the following requirements, 1 point
shall be awarded to the Child Protection score. If the vehicle is a 2 seater then only thepassenger seat(s) is required to meet the requirements.

5.4.2

For results published up to the end of December 2014, vehicles will only be required
to meet either the ISOFIX or i-Size marking requirements to be rewarded. Where avehicle is compliant with the i-Size specifications and is equipped with a top tether thecurrent ISOFIX markings will be accepted in place of the i-Size pictogram.

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5.4.3

From the 1st January 2015, only seating positions that comply with ALL i-Sizerequirements of Regulations 14, 16 & 129 and are equipped with a top tether will be
rewarded. The i-Size pictogram and top tether markings will be required. The ISOFIX
text and pictogram will NOT be rewarded.

CONCEPT: The user of a vehicle equipped with ISOFIX anchorages should be made aware of
the existence and location of the anchorages, including any top tether anchorages.
a) Each seat which is equipped with ISOFIX/i-Size anchorages must be marked. It must be
clear which pairs anchorages should be used together.
b) The location of each ISOFIX/i-Size anchorage must be marked.
c) The location of each top tether anchorage must be marked and include both text and apictogram.
d) The ISOFIX markings must include both text and a pictogram. i-Size markings only
require the relevant i-Size pictogram detailed in Regulation 16.
e) All markings must be of conspicuous design and both the text and pictogram must havecolours which contrast with their background.
f) All markings must be permanently visible. Flag type labels are not acceptable.
g) All marking must be permanently attached to the vehicle.
h) ISOFIX/i-Size relevant information must be presented in the vehicle handbook.
5.5

Two or more Largest ISOFIX Positions

Where two seating positions are in compliance with the following requirements, 1 point shall beawarded to the Child Protection score:
CONCEPT: Vehicles in which at least two ISOFIX positions are capable of accommodating thelargest size of rearward-facing ISOFIX CRS should be rewarded.
a) For vehicles with rear seats, two or more passenger seats are suitable for simultaneous
use with the largest size of rearward facing (Class C) ISOFIX CRS, Fixture (CRF)
ISO/R3.
Note: When checking a CRF on a rear seat, the vehicle seat located in front of this rearseat may be adjusted longitudinally forward but not further than the mid position
between its rearmost and foremost positions. The seat backrest angle may also be
adjusted, but not to a more upright angle than corresponding to a torso angle of 15
degrees.
b) For vehicles without rear seats, one or more passenger seats are suitable forsimultaneous use with the largest size of rearward facing (Class C) ISOFIX CRS,
Fixture (CRF) ISO/R3.
c) This information must be presented in the vehicle handbook.

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5.6

Passenger Airbag Warning Marking and Disabling

If the vehicle is fitted with a serial or optional front seat passenger’s frontal protection airbag, ismarked with a permanent airbag warning label that meets either the requirements of the Child
protection protocol version 5.3 or Regulation 94 and the requirements of Section 5.6.1 are met, amaximum of 4 points will be awarded. Alternatively, 2 points will be awarded where a label
meets the above requirements and those of Section 5.6.2 are met.
If no passenger airbag is available on the entire model range, 2 points will be awarded to theChild Protection score.
CONCEPT: A warning regarding the hazard posed by a frontal protection air bag to theoccupant of a rearward-facing child restraint should be permanently and explicitly marked on thevehicle and be designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle.
The vehicle should make provision for the safe carrying of a child in a rearward facing CRS in
the front passenger seat, without additional actions by the installer.
Where a manual switch is used to disable the airbag, precautions should be taken to ensure thatthe switch cannot be operated by a child, without the knowledge of the driver.
Where Euro NCAP refers to the airbag deactivation components as ‘the system’, this refers to theswitch, airbag status indicator, airbag and any other components associated with the deactivationof the airbag.
5.6.1

If the vehicle is equipped with a system which automatically switches the airbag off
for ANY rearward facing CRS and obviates any risk associated with airbag
deployment, 4 points will be awarded:a) The General and Airbag status indicator requirements detailed in Section 5.6.2 are met.
b) If, with the ignition on and with engine running or not, the airbag status can be changed,
the entire system must react correctly to the change immediately. Systems will bechecked once the vehicle diagnostics/system checks have been completed.
c) The system must automatically re-activate the airbag when an adult occupant occupies
the seat.

5.6.2

The airbag can be de-activated manually and the following requirements are met, 2points will be awarded:
General requirements:a) Any text, labelling and instructions in relation to airbag disabling must be permanently
attached to the vehicle.
b) The information provided must be clear, without reference to the vehicle’s handbook orother source.
c) There must be no possibility of the users being given false information.
Airbag status indicator requirements:d) Easily visibly information and warnings must be provided for the driver and front seatpassenger, showing the status of the airbag.
e) The status indicator must be labelled with the words ‘Passenger AIRBAG OFF/ON’.

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Abbreviations such as ‘Pass’, ‘AB’ or any other combination is NOT acceptable.
f) The AIRBAG ON pictogram must be based upon that of the sun visor label (ECE R94)
as shown below:g) The AIRBAG OFF pictogram must be based upon that detailed in ECE R121 as shown
below:h) Slight alterations to the ON/OFF pictograms above are acceptable provided that thebasic geometry of the pictogram remains the same. Mirroring and monochrome colours
are acceptable.
i) If the information to indicate that the airbag is enabled is provided by an illuminatedsignal, the signal is only required to be illuminated for a period of 60 seconds after theignition is switched on.
j) Information to indicate that the airbag is disabled must be permanently displayed, when
the ignition is on.
k) If at any time the airbag is switched from the OFF position to the ON position, the statusindicator showing that the airbag is ON must signal this immediately after checking
period for at least 60 seconds, regardless of the length of time the ignition has beenswitched on, or until the ignition is switched off again.
Manual airbag deactivation requirements:l) Where a switch is used, it must be labelled with the words ‘Passenger AIRBAG
OFF/ON’ and the same pictograms detailed above indicating ON and OFF.
m) The individual switch positions must be marked with the same pictograms that are used
to indicate the airbag status. The two positions must be marked with the text ON & OFF
along with the corresponding pictogram.
n) Where the two switch positions are marked not on the switch but on an adjacent label,the label must be sufficiently close to the switch, such that the user clearly associates
one with the other.
o) Where a hardware switch is used, it must be accessible and clearly visible when
installing CRS. For example, where a switch is located in the glove box, the presence ofthe switch must be clearly highlighted either by switch itself or an additional,
permanent, label when the lid is open. For example, the switch may not be located on
the driver’s side of the vehiclep) It must not be possible for a rearward facing child; restrained on the front passenger
seat; to operate the switch at any time.
q) Where a software based switch is used, clear instructions detailing ‘Passenger AIRBAG
OFF/ON’ (no abbreviations) must be presented in the menu at the same time as the
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corresponding pictograms used for the status indicator.
r) If, with the ignition on and with engine running or not, the airbag status can be changed,
the system must react correctly to the change immediately. Systems will be checked
once the vehicle diagnostics/system checks have been completed.
5.7

Integrated Child Restraints

5.7.1

Where the vehicle is provided with an integrated CRS as standard equipment, 1 point
shall be awarded to the Child Protection score. For vehicles without rear seats, 1 point
will be awarded in case one or more passenger seats are provided with integrated CRS.

5.7.2

Where the vehicle is provided with two or more integrated CRS, as standard
equipment, 1 additional point shall be awarded to the Child Protection score. For
vehicles without rear seats, 1 point will be awarded in case one or more passenger
seats are provided with integrated CRS.

5.7.3

Where the vehicle is provided with one or more “Group I-III” integrated CRS, asstandard, 1 additional point shall be awarded to the Child Protection score.

CONCEPT: Vehicles that provide, as standard, two or more integrated restraints should be
rewarded.
CONCEPT: Vehicles that offer at least one integrated restraint suitable for all age groups except
the youngest children, who use portable restraint systems, should be rewarded.
Group I for children of mass from 9kg to 18kg
Group II for children of mass from 15kg to 25kg
Group III for children of mass from 22kg to 36kg

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6

TWO SEATERS AND VEHICLES WITH LIMITED REAR SPACE

This Section details how protection for children is assessed by Euro NCAP in vehicles equippedwith two seats and in vehicles where space is limited in the rear.
6.1

Vehicles with only Two Seats

6.1.1

CRS installation assessment

6.1.1.1 The top pick seats and any manufacturer recommended seats will be installed on thepassenger seat as detailed in Section 3. Where the passenger seat is able to meet therequirements of Sections 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5 for Universal and Semi-Universal CRS thevehicle will be awarded 12 points. The score will be calculated as described in Section
3.7.
6.1.1.2 All groups (0-III) must be represented by the top pick and manufacturer recommended
CRS. Where this requirement is not met or the seating position is exempted, the CRS
installation assessment will be 0 points.
6.1.1.3 Where the manufacturer exempts the front passenger seat, 0 points will be awarded for
the CRS installation assessment.
6.1.2

Dynamic assessment

6.1.2.1 For two seater sports cars there will be no dynamic assessment, therefore the maximum
number of points is 12+9.
6.1.2.2 To ensure that these vehicles are not penalised for having no dynamic assessment, therelative score weighting of the available assessments remains the same between theapplicable assessments. The score out of 21 points for two seaters is scaled to beequivalent to any other vehicle that is assessed out of the full 49 points.
6.1.3

Vehicle based assessments
The following vehicle based assessments will be applied to two seater vehicles:“5.1 Provision of Three-point Seat Belts”
If the passenger seat is not equipped with a three-point lap and diagonal seatbelt, 0
points shall be awarded for the vehicle based assessments.
“5.2 Gabarit Installation on all Passenger Seats”
Where the passenger seat is in compliance with the requirements in Section 5.2.2, 1
point shall be awarded to the Child Protection score.
“5.4 ISOFIX or i-Size Usability”
Where the passenger seat is in compliance with the requirements, 1 point shall beawarded to the Child Protection score.
“5.5 Two or more Largest ISOFIX Positions”
Where the passenger seat is in compliance with the following requirements, 1 point

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shall be awarded to the Child Protection score:“5.6 Passenger Airbag Warning Marking and Disabling”
Where the vehicle is in compliance with the requirements, maximum of 4 points shallbe awarded to the Child Protection score.
“5.7 Integrated Child Restraints”
Where the vehicle is provided with an integrated CRS as standard equipment, 1 point
shall be awarded to the Child Protection score.
Where the vehicle is provided with one “Group I-III” integrated CRS as standard, 1
additional point shall be awarded to the Child Protection score.
6.1.4

6.2

Two seater vehicles with passenger airbag that are not equipped with a passenger
airbag deactivation switch will not be eligible to score in the vehicle based
assessments. Where this is the case, the vehicle based assessment will be 0 points.
Vehicles with Limited Rear Space

Vehicles will be considered as having limited rear space when the normal CRSs recommended by
the manufacturer cannot be installed with the front seats in the Euro NCAP Frontal ODB impact
test position. Where this is the case, the vehicle manufacturer should provide evidence showingthat the CRS and/or child cannot be installed without interference from the vehicle.
6.2.1

CRS installation assessment

6.2.1.1 The top pick seats and any manufacturer recommended seats will be installed on thepassenger and rear seats as detailed in Section 3, using the front seat settings as specified
in the vehicle handbook. Where the passenger seat is able to meet the requirements ofSections 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5 for Universal and Semi-Universal CRS the vehicle will beawarded 12 points. The score will be calculated as described in Section 3.7.
6.2.2

Dynamic assessment

6.2.2.1 Where a manufacturer wishes to avoid being awarded zero points for the CRS dynamic
assessments, data from additional full scale frontal and side impact tests may be provided
by the manufacturer. These tests shall be performed using the appropriate CRS with thefront seats positioned as required to allow for installation of the CRS. This front seatposition should be mentioned in the vehicle handbook. The tests must be equivalent to
the Euro NCAP front and side impact tests and contain an equivalent level of
instrumentation. Adult dummies are not required. It is the responsibility of the vehicle
manufacturer to ensure that adequate film coverage of the impact, and specifically childhead excursion and head containment, is provided.
A “hybrid rating” would be produced using the adult data from the normal full scale
test (performed without CRS) and the child data from the additional tests. In the final
vehicle rating, Euro NCAP will indicate that it was not possible to install the CRS withand adult in the normal Euro NCAP front seat test position. A maximum of 24 points
can be achieved.
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6.2.3

Vehicle based assessment
All vehicle based assessments will apply as detailed in Section 5 and be assessed outof a maximum 13 points.

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7

SCORING AND VISUALISATION

7.1

Scoring

Currently, the maximum number of points available for child protection in vehicles with rear seatsis 49. For vehicles without rear seats, the maximum score is 21 points. The maximum points
available in each assessment area are as follows:• Dynamic Assessment• Installation of Child Restraints• Vehicle Based Assessments

With rear seats
24
12
13

without rear seats
012
9The child protection score will be the sum of all three areas.
The tables below summarise the maximum possible score in each (sub)category for vehicles withlimited rear space and for vehicles with no rear seats (such as two seaters).
7.2

Child Protection Assessment Points Table (Normal and Limited Rear Space)
Section

4
4.1
4.2
4.2.2
4.2.2.1
4.2.2.2
4.2.2.3
4.2.2.4
4.2.2.5
4.2.3
4.2.3.1
4.2.3.2
2.1

5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7

Category
Dynamic Assessment
Ejection
Head Contact with the Vehicle
Frontal Impact
Head Contact with the CRS
Head Excursion (Forward Facing CRS)
Head Exposure (Rearward Facing CRS)
Neck Tension
Chest
Side Impact
Head Containment
Head Contact with the CRS
Installation of Child Restraints
Universal seatsSemi-universal seats
Recommended seats
Vehicle Based Assessments
Provision of Three-point Seat Belts
Gabarit Installation on all Passenger Seats
Three Simultaneous Use Seating Positions
ISOFIX Usability
Two or more Largest ISOFIX Positions
Passenger Airbag Warning Marking and Disabling
Integrated CRS

Total points (49)(24)
switchswitch
(16)
8
4
4
(8)
switch
8
(12)
5
5
2
(13)
Switch221
1
4 or 2
3

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7.3

Child Protection Assessment Points Table (No Rear Seats)
Section

2.1

5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7

Category
Installation of Child Restraints
Universal seatsSemi-universal seats
Recommended seats
Vehicle Based Assessments
Provision of Three-point Seat Belts
Gabarit Installation on front Passenger Seat
Three Simultaneous Use Seating Positions
ISOFIX Usability
Largest ISOFIX Position on front Passenger Seat
Passenger Airbag Warning Marking and Disabling
Integrated CRS

Total points (21)
(12)
5
5
2
(9)
switch1NA1
14 or 2
2

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8

REFERENCES

1

UN ECE Regulation 44, Revision 2, “Uniform Provisions Concerning The Approval Of
Restraining Devices For Child Occupants Of Power-Driven Vehicles ("Child Restraint
System")”, 4 February 2008.

2

UN ECE Regulation 16 Revision 06 “Uniform Provisions Concerning The Approval Of: I.
Safety-Belts, Restraint Systems, Child Restraint Systems And ISOFIX Child Restraint
Systems For Occupants Of Power-Driven Vehicles; II. Vehicles Equipped With SafetyBelts, Restraint Systems, Child Restraint Systems and ISOFIX Child Restraint Systems”,
24 February 2005.

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APPENDIX I
ANGLE MEASURING DEVICEA 9 kg articulated steel device used to measure the angle between the seat and the backrest.
Extract taken from pr EN1888:2012: Child care articles - Wheeled child conveyances – Safety
requirements and test methods.

Key










1 part to be placed onto the seat surface made of steel
2 part to be placed onto the backrest surface made of steel
3 hinge pin made of steel
E mass: 4495 ± 50 g
F mass: 4501 ± 50 g
G mass of hinge axle: 17 ± 0,5 g, length: 79,5 mm.
total mass tolerance: (9 ± 0,1) kg dimensions tolerance: ± 2 mm
All edges shall be chamfered.

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APPENDIX IIGABARIT SPECIFICATION

All dimensions are in mm

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