EUROPEAN NEW CAR ASSESSMENT PROGRAMME(Euro NCAP)ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL – CHILD OCCUPANT PROTECTION
Version 5.3
June 2011

Copyright ©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 permissionof Euro NCAP. To disseminate otherwise or to republish requires written permission from Euro NCAP.

Version 5.3
June 2011

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

Table of Contents
1

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

2

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT .............................................................................................. 1

3

CHILD PROTECTION ASSESSMENT .............................................................................. 3
3.1

Introduction .................................................................................................................................3

3.2

Preconditions................................................................................................................................3

3.3

Dynamic Assessment ...................................................................................................................3

3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.3.4

3.4
3.4.1
3.4.2

3.5
3.5.1
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.5.4
3.5.5
3.5.6

3.6
3.6.1
3.6.2
3.6.3
3.6.4

4

Ejection ................................................................................................................................................... 4
Head Contact with the Vehicle ............................................................................................................... 4
Frontal Impact ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Side Impact ............................................................................................................................................. 6

CRS Based Assessment ...............................................................................................................6
CRS Marking .......................................................................................................................................... 6
CRS to Vehicle Interface ...................................................................................................................... 10

Vehicle Based Assessment .........................................................................................................10
Use of CRS on the Front Seat ............................................................................................................... 11
Provision of Three-point Seat Belts ...................................................................................................... 13
Gabarit .................................................................................................................................................. 13
All Passenger Seats Suitable for Universal CRS .................................................................................. 15
ISOFIX ................................................................................................................................................. 15
Integrated CRS...................................................................................................................................... 16

Scoring and Visualisation .........................................................................................................17
Scoring .................................................................................................................................................. 17Child Protection Assessment Points Table (Normal and Limited Rear Space) .................................... 18Child Protection Assessment Points Table (No Rear Seats) ................................................................. 19
Visualisation ......................................................................................................................................... 20

CONCEPTS AND EXPLANATIONS BEHIND THE ASSESSMENTS ........................ 21
4.1
4.1.1
4.1.2
4.1.3
4.1.4

4.2
4.2.1
4.2.2

Dynamic Assessment .................................................................................................................21
Ejection (section 3.3.1) ......................................................................................................................... 21
Frontal Impact ....................................................................................................................................... 21
Side Impact ........................................................................................................................................... 21
Head Containment (Section 3.3.4.1) ..................................................................................................... 21

CRS Based Assessment .............................................................................................................21
CRS Marking (Section 3.4.1)................................................................................................................ 21
CRS to Vehicle Interface (Section 3.4.2) .............................................................................................. 21

4.3

Vehicle Based Assessment .........................................................................................................22

4.3.1
Version 5.3
June 2011

Use of CRS on Front Seat ..................................................................................................................... 22

4.3.2
4.3.3
4.3.4
4.3.5
4.3.6

5

Provision of Three-point Seat Belts (Section 3.5.2) ............................................................................. 22
Gabarit (Section 3.5.4) .......................................................................................................................... 22
All Passenger Seats Suitable for Universal CRS (Section 3.5.4) .......................................................... 22
ISOFIX ................................................................................................................................................. 22
Integrated CRS...................................................................................................................................... 23

REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................... 24

APPENDIX I ................................................................................................................................. 25
APPENDIX II ................................................................................................................................ 26

Version 5.3
June 2011

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

1INTRODUCTION

Euro NCAP‟s original assessment protocol was developed jointly by TRL and Vehicle Safety
Consultants Ltd. under contract to the UK Department of the Environment Transport and theRegions and International Testing, respectively. Subsequent versions of the protocol have beendeveloped and released by the Euro NCAP Secretariat. Beginning with Version 5 importantchanges have been included that have been brought about by the introduction of the overall rating
scheme. Individual documents are released for the four main areas of assessment:Assessment Protocol – Adult Occupant Protection;
Assessment Protocol – Child Occupant Protection;
Assessment Protocol – Pedestrian Occupant Protection;
Assessment Protocol – Safety Assist;

In addition to these four assessment protocols, a separate document is provided describing themethod and criteria by which the overall safety rating is calculated on the basis of the car
performance in each of the above areas of assessment.
The following protocol deals with the assessments made in the area of Child Occupant Protection
for vehicles with a second row or more and for vehicles with limited rear space.
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).
2

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

The starting point for the assessment of child occupant protection is the dummy head response
data recorded in frontal impact and side impact. For this purpose two crash dummies, representing
a 1½ year old and 3 year old child are placed in child seats recommended by the car manufacturer.
The dynamic assessment focuses on head and chest only due to the limited biofidelity of thedummies for other body regions. At post-crash vehicle inspection, additional assessments aredone on the CRS with respect to marking and the way the seats interface with the car. Similarly,
the car is assessed on aspects as labelling, airbag disabling, ISOFIX usability amongst others. The
scores achieved in the three main categories are combined to calculate the total Child OccupantProtection Score.
Version 5.3
June 20111

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.

Version 5.3
June 2011

2

3

CHILD PROTECTION ASSESSMENT

3.1

Introduction
This protocol defines how protection for 1½ year old and 3 year old children isassessed in Euro NCAP, using P Series dummies for dynamic performance. The
protocol described below is applicable to all classes of vehicles currently assessed byEuro NCAP, including vehicles where there is no rear bench or where there is limited
space for carrying Child Restraints (CRS) on the rear seats.

3.2

Preconditions

3.2.1

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

3.2.2

The CRS must be available for purchase by the public, in all countries of the European
Union, where the vehicle is sold. The CRS system must be available to the public
within 5 working days of an order being made.

3.2.3

The CRS must be formally approved to UN ECE Regulation 44.04 or later, for thevehicle being assessed.

3.2.4

For vehicles with limited space in the rear which cannot accommodate the usual CRS
recommended by the manufacturer, a more suitable alternative CRS shall berecommended. These seats must fit in the vehicle with the front seats in the test
position.

3.2.4.1

Where the manufacturer makes no recommendation or the alternative seats do not fit
in the vehicle, Euro NCAP will choose any suitable CRS which can be installed in thevehicle for use in the crash test. Where this is the case, the points for CRS to Vehicle
Interface will not be awarded.

3.2.4.2

Where it is not possible to install any CRS (either recommended or randomly chosen
CRS) on the rear seats with the front seats in the test position, the vehicle will beassessed as normal but the dynamic and compatibility assessments will be defaulted tozero points. If the manufacturer wishes to avoid being awarded zero points for the
dynamic and compatibility assessments, section 3.3 below details alternativerequirements for this scenario.

3.3

Dynamic Assessment
This section is only applicable to vehicles equipped with rear seats; the preconditions
for dynamic assessments are detailed in section 3.2 of this document.

Version 5.3
June 20113

Where a manufacturer wishes to avoid being awarded zero points for the CRS
dynamic and compatibility 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 the front seats positioned as required to allow for
installation of the CRS. This front seat position should be mentioned in the vehicle
handbook.
The tests must be equivalent to the Euro NCAP front and side impact tests and containan 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 child head 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.
3.3.1

Ejection

3.3.1.1

If 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. Otherwise, points are awarded as given below.

3.3.1.2

If the CRS is partially or wholly unrestrained by any of the vehicle interfaces at any
time throughout the impact including rebound, that CRS is awarded zero points for its
dynamic performance in front and side impact. The vehicle interfaces of ISOFIX
restraints are the two ISOFIX anchorages, top tether anchorage or any other means ofrotation limiting device such as a support leg. 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 childor child restraint. Where the CRS is fully restrained throughout the impact, points areawarded as given below.

3.3.2

Head Contact with the Vehicle

3.3.2.1

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 and neck performance, in that test. Otherwise, points are awarded as given below.

3.3.3

Frontal Impact

3.3.3.1

Head Contact with the CRS
Contact is defined by either:a) Direct evidence of contactb) Peak resultant acceleration > 80g
In the absence of contact:
P1½ is awarded 2 points
P3 is awarded 4 points

Version 5.3
June 20114

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.
P1½

2 points  72g;

0 points  88g

P3

4 points  72g;

0 points  88g

Note: Between limit values, a sliding scale will be used, for this and other parameters.
3.3.3.2

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 the points will be based on the following:
P1½

2 points  549mm;

0 points  550mm

P3

4 points  549mm;

0 points  550mm

If in future a more precise method of measuring head excursion becomes available, asliding scale may be introduced. Again, in future, consideration may be given tobasing the limits on internal geometry of the vehicle.
3.3.3.3

Head Exposure (Rearward Facing CRS)
Where the following requirements are complied with, the P1½ will be awarded 2
points and the P3 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)

3.3.3.4

Neck Tension (Rearward Facing CRS)
As a surrogate for neck tension, the score is based on the Head Vertical Acceleration,3msec exceedence.
P1½ (only) 2 points  20g; 0 points  40g
Note: With the neck transducer now available, forces will be measured directly andmay be used in the future.

3.3.3.5

Chest
The chest score is based on the worst scoring of the two parameters, as detailed below.
Chest resultant acceleration, 3msec exceedence
P1½ and P3 4 points  41g; 0 points  55g
Absolute value of chest vertical acceleration, 3 msec exceedence
P1½ and P3 4 points  23g; 0 points  30g

Version 5.3
June 20115

3.3.3.6

Overall Dynamic Score for Frontal impact
The Overall Dynamic Score for the Frontal Impact is calculated as: Head Contact with the CRS (Section 3.3.3.1) Worst score from  Head Excursion (Section 3.3.3.2)
 Head Exposure (Section 3.3.3.3)
+ Score from Neck Tension (Section 3.3.3.4)+ Score from Chest (Section 3.3.3.5)
3.3.4

Side Impact

3.3.4.1

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 are awarded as given in section 3.3.4.2 below.
Note: “Contained” requires that some energy absorbing section of the side wingremains between the head and a virtual intruding vertical plane, representing the sidestructure of the vehicle. There must also be no fracturing of the CRS which might
compromise the performance of the side wing of the CRS.

3.3.4.2

Head Contact with the CRS
Contact is defined by either:a) Direct evidence of contactb) Peak resultant acceleration > 80g
In the absence of contact:
P1½ and P3 are awarded 4 points
In the presence of contact, the score is based on the Head Resultant Acceleration,3msec exceedence.
P1½ and P3 4 points  72g; 0 points  88g

3.4

CRS Based Assessment
This section is applicable to all child seats assessed, including those that have beenchosen by Euro NCAP where the manufacturer has made no (suitable)
recommendation for specific child seats.

3.4.1

CRS Marking
If the markings on the CRS fully comply with the following “CRS Marking
Requirements” and the relevant “Additional CRS Marking Requirements,” that CRS
will be awarded 4 points. Otherwise it will be awarded zero points.
Where a CRS, or part of a CRS, is approved for use in different configurations, Euro

Version 5.3
June 2011

6

NCAP will assess the marking for each configuration. Points will only be awarded if
the requirements are met for all approved configurations.
The CRS markings must fully comply with the following requirements of UN ECERegulation 44, Revision 2 [1]. As these requirements may be updated, so consideration
will be given to updating the Euro NCAP requirements with the aim of avoiding
conflict.
Note: The paragraph numbers below are those of the UN ECE Regulation 44 Rev2 [1].
§4.3 If the restraint is to be used in combination with an adultsafety belt the correct routing of the webbing shall be clearly
indicated by means of a drawing permanently attached to therestraint. If the restraint is held in place by the adult safetybelt, the routes of the webbing shall be clearly marked on the
product by colour coding. The colours for the safety-belt route to be
used when the device is installed forward facing shall be red andwhen installed rear-facing shall be blue. The same colours shall also
be used on the labels on the device that illustrate the methods ofuse.
There must be a clear differentiation between the intended routes forthe lap section and the diagonal section of the safety belt.
Indication such as colour coding, words, shapes etc. shalldistinguish each section of the safety belt.
In any illustration of the belt route on the product, the orientationof the child restraint relative to the vehicle must be clearly
indicated. Belt route diagrams that do not show the vehicle seat are
not acceptable.
The marking defined in this paragraph shall be visible with therestraint in the vehicle. For group 0 restraints, this marking shallalso be visible with the child in the restraint.
§4.4 On the visible inner surface (including the side wing beside thechild's head) in the approximate area where the child's head rests
within the child restraint, rearward facing restraints shall have thefollowing label permanently attached (the text information shown is aminimum).
This label shall be provided in the language(s) of the country where
the device is sold.
Label minimum size: 60 x 120 mm
The label shall be stitched to the cover around its entire perimeter
and/or permanently bonded to the cover over its entire back surface.
Any other form of attachment that is permanent and not liable toremoval from the product or to becoming obscured is acceptable. Flag
type labels are specifically prohibited.

Version 5.3
June 20117

If sections of the restraint or any accessories supplied by the child
restraint manufacturer are able to obscure the label an additionallabel is required. One warning label shall be permanently visible inall situations when the restraint is prepared for use in any
configuration.

§4.5 In the case of child restraints that can be used forward andrear-facing, include the words:"IMPORTANT - DO NOT USE FORWARD FACING BEFORE THE CHILD'S WEIGHTEXCEEDS .......... (Refer to instructions)"§4.6 In the case of child restraints with alternative belt routes,
the alternative load bearing contact points between the child
restraint and the adult safety-belt must be permanently marked. This
marking shall indicate that it is the alternative belt route, andshall conform with the above coding requirements for forward andrearward facing seats.
§4.7 If the child restraint offers alternative load bearing contact
points, the marking required in paragraph 4.3 shall include anindication that the alternative belt route is described in the
instructions.”

Version 5.3
June 20118

In addition, Euro NCAP has the following requirements:a) The markings must be permanently marked on the CRS.
b) These markings must be easily visible to a user installing the CRS from either sideof the CRS. Any relevant information must be easily visible, at the time an
installation action is to be performed.
c) These markings must show how all the required CRS components are used foreach size of child.
3.4.1.1

Additional Marking Requirements (ISOFIX)a) The markings on the CRS must show how the ISOFIX attachments should be used.
b) These markings must indicate how the seat should be prepared for installation.
This must include information on how the ISOFIX latch system is extended.
c) These markings must indicate the position, function and meaning of any “telltales.”d) These markings must indicate the position and method of use of the “top tether” orother means of limiting CRS rotation.
e) These markings must indicate how the ISOFIX latch system, top tether or othermeans of limiting CRS rotation are to be adjusted.
f) The markings must also meet the requirements for “vehicle specific” child
restraints.
g) For Universal ISOFIX, the markings must indicate the following:That the CRS should only be used on seats provided with a top tether and be
approved for use with three-point Universal ISOFIX.
That use on seats without a top tether should be avoided.
That the top tether is an essential part of the restraint system.

h) For Semi-universal ISOFIX, the markings must indicate the following:
3.4.1.2

That the CRS should only be used in combination with an “anti-rotation
device” and be approved for use with an anti-rotation device.
Advice on how to use and adjust the anti-rotation device.
That the anti-rotation device is an essential part of the restraint system.

Additional Marking Requirements (Vehicle Specific and Semi-universal ISOFIX)a) Seats approved as Vehicle Specific or Semi-universal ISOFIX must have thefollowing additional information clearly and permanently displayed on the seat.
The content is important, the specific wording of the second and third items is not:

Version 5.3
June 2011

Attention: This child seat is only approved for use in certain models of vehicle.
A list of suitable models of vehicle is contained in or attached to the instruction
manual for the CRS.
9

Information on how to obtain the latest information regarding suitable vehicles.
(e.g. web site address, telephone or fax number.)b) The vehicle specific list, current at the time of production, must be contained in or
attached to the instruction manual for the CRS.
c) The text must be in at least one of the languages of the country in which the CRS
is sold.
3.4.2

CRS to Vehicle Interface
For the outboard rear seating positions, compatibility is assessed for all combinationsof CRS and vehicle adjustment unless they are specifically excluded, as indicated bypermanent markings on the seat or on the vehicle. Such markings must be clearlyvisible to the user installing the CRS. Currently, this assessment does not assess spacerequirements.
Where there are no compatibility issues, the CRS is awarded two points. Otherwise,
zero points are scored.

3.4.2.1

Additional Interface Requirements (Universal CRS)
Examples of incompatibility:a) Adult belt hardware which is loaded in bending, due to the interaction between thebuckle and seat belt contact point.
b) Adult belt geometry where the belt anchorage is forward of the seat belt contact
point. This allows excessive forward movement of the CRS, before tension is
generated in the adult belt.

3.4.2.2

Additional Interface Requirements (ISOFIX and other CRS)
Examples of incompatibility:a) Inadequate support provided for a leg used to supplement restraint of the CRS.
b) ISOFIX seats where predictable mis-latching situations are identified. Mis-latching
may be related to the ISOFIX interface attachments or any latching between the
CRS seat and its mounting frame or support leg.
To avoid mis-latching:(i) The CRS markings must include instructions to physically check that thelatches are engaged e.g. by pulling on the CRS, and(ii) A visual tell tale or tell tales must indicate when the latches are correctly
locked. The tell tale(s) must be easily visible to a user installing the CRS.

3.5

Vehicle Based Assessment
This section is applicable to all vehicles assessed by Euro NCAP.

Version 5.3
June 201110

3.5.1

Use of CRS on the Front Seat

3.5.1.1

Airbag Warning Marking
If the vehicle is fitted with a front seat passenger‟s frontal protection airbag and an
airbag warning marking exists which fully complies with the following requirements,
2 points are awarded to the Child Protection score.
If no airbag is fitted to the model variant tested by Euro NCAP but it is available as an
option, the assessment will be carried out on a vehicle with the optional airbag fitted.
If no airbag is available the 2 points will be awarded to the Child Protection score,irrespective of the presence of a warning label.
a) The label must contain text and a pictogram warning of the hazard associated withthe use of a rearward facing CRS on a seat equipped with a frontal protection
airbag. The ISO pictogram is preferred as it should be used on the CRS.
b) The text must be in at least one of the languages of the country in which thevehicle is sold.
c) The text must refer to “death and serious injury” as a possible consequence ofignoring the advice.
d) The label must be of conspicuous design and it must be permanently visible.
e) The label must be permanently attached to the vehicle but not to the windscreen,
which may be replaced during the life of the vehicle.

3.5.1.2

Airbag Disabling Requirements
If the vehicle is equipped with a system which automatically detects the presence of
ANY rearward facing CRS and obviates any risk associated with airbag deployment, 3
points are awarded to the Child Protection score. Such a system must re-activate theairbag when the CRS is removed.
If no front seat passenger‟s frontal protection airbag is fitted to any variant in themodel range, 2 points are awarded to the Child Protection score. If the airbag is
optional, the assessment will be based on a vehicle fitted with the optional airbag.
If a front seat passenger‟s frontal protection airbag is fitted and the following
requirements are complied with, 2 points are awarded to the Child Protection score.
a) Dealer disconnect is available for vehicles with rear seats.
Note: This is not an acceptable disconnection measure for car without rearseats such as two seaters, which would be awarded no credit.
b) The airbag can be de-activated by a manual switch meeting the following
requirements:
 Easily visibly information and warnings must be provided for the driver andfront seat passenger, showing the status of the airbag.

Version 5.3
June 201111

Version 5.3
June 2011

Text must be in at least one of the languages of the country in which thevehicle is sold. Alternatively, the words „Passenger AIRBAG OFF/ON‟ areacceptable where the requirements of 3.5.1.1 are also met.
Note: „Pass‟, „AB‟ or other abbreviations are NOT acceptable.
 Pictograms are required to indicate the airbag status (ON and OFF).
 If the information to indicate that the airbag is enabled is provided by anilluminated signal, the signal is only required to be illuminated for a period of
60 seconds after the ignition is switched on. The AIRBAG ON pictogram must
be the same as that used in the airbag warning label (section 3.5.1.1).
 Information to indicate that the airbag is disabled must be permanently
displayed, when the ignition is on.
 The switch must be accompanied by text in at least one of the languages of thecountry which the vehicle is sold. Alternatively, the switch may be labelledwith the text „Passenger AIRBAG OFF/ON‟ providing it has also been used forthe airbag status warning.
 The individual switch positions must be marked with the same pictograms thatare used to indicate that airbag status. However, they need not be illuminatedon the switch. The two switch positions may be marked either on the switch
itself or on an adjacent label. If the switch is marked the two positions must be
marked with the text ON & OFF along with the corresponding pictogram.
When an adjacent label is provided, the label must be at a sufficiently small
distance to the switch, such that the user clearly associates one with the other.
The label must contain the text „Passenger AIRBAG‟. The two switch
positions must be illustrated on the label and accompanied by the text
ON/OFF. Four pictograms must also be provided that correspond to the switch
positions and are separated in some way as to avoid confusion between
pictograms and switch positions.
 Any labelling/instructions must be permanently attached to the vehicle.
 The information provided must be clear, without reference to the vehicle‟shandbook or other source.
 There must be no possibility of the users being given false information.
 If, with the ignition on and with engine running or not, the switch position 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.
 If at any time the airbag is switched from the OFF position to the ON position,
the status indicator showing that the airbag is ON must signal this immediately
for at least 60 seconds, regardless of the length of time the ignition has beenswitched on, or until the ignition is switched off again.
Notes:
Where Euro NCAP refers to the airbag deactivation components as ‘the system’,this refers to the switch, airbag status indicator, airbag any other components
12associated with the deactivation of the airbag.
If „dealer disconnect‟ is available for a car fitted with a „manual or automatic
switch‟, the requirements for the switch must also be met for the points to beawarded.
c) The airbag can be de-activated by an automatic switch/system meeting thefollowing requirements:
 Easily visibly information and warnings must be provided for the driver andfront seat passenger, showing the status of the airbag.
 Text must be in at least one of the languages of the country in which thevehicle is sold. Alternatively, the words „Passenger AIRBAG OFF/ON‟ areacceptable where the requirements of 3.5.1.1 are also met. Note: „Pass‟, „AB‟or other abbreviations are NOT acceptable.
 Pictograms are required to indicate the airbag status (ON and OFF).
 If the information to indicate that the airbag is enabled is provided by anilluminated signal, the signal is only required to be illuminated for a period of
60 seconds after the ignition is switched on. The AIRBAG ON pictogram must
be the same as that used in the airbag warning label (3.5.1.1)
 Information to indicate that the airbag is disabled must be permanently
displayed, when the ignition is on.
 Any labelling/instructions must be permanently attached to the vehicle.
 The information provided must be clear, without reference to the vehicle‟shandbook or other source.
 There must be no possibility of the users being given false information.
 If, with the ignition on and with engine running or not, the airbag status can bechanged, the system must react correctly to the change immediately. Systems
will be checked once the vehicle diagnostics/system checks have been
completed.
 If at any time the airbag is switched from the OFF position to the ON position,
the status indicator showing that the airbag is ON must signal this immediately
for at least 60 seconds, regardless of the length of time the ignition has beenswitched on, or until the ignition is switched off again.
3.5.2

Provision of Three-point Seat Belts
If all forward or rearward facing passenger seats are equipped with three-point
seatbelts, 1 point is awarded to the Child Protection score.

3.5.3

Gabarit
Where both outboard rear seats, used by a CRS in the crash tests, are in compliancewith the following requirements, which are based on, but not identical to, UN ECERegulation 16.05 [2], 1 point shall be awarded to the Child Protection score. The

Version 5.3
June 201113

3.5.3.1

3.5.3.2

3.5.3.3
3.5.3.4
3.5.3.5
3.5.3.6
3.5.3.7
3.5.3.8
3.5.3.9

Gabarit, as specified in Appendix II, shall be installed on both of the 2nd row outboard
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.
If an alternative seat, seat-back or safety-belt anchorage adjustment is to be used when
installing CRS, information about the alternative position must be included in the
Vehicle Handbook giving the information required in 3.5.4 a). 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
as shown in Figures 1 and 2, 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 aforce of 100 N ±10 N, and remove the force.

Figure 1
3.5.3.10

Version 5.3
June 2011

Figure 2

Requirements:a) With correct routing of the adult seat belt around the Gabarit, the base of theGabarit shall contact both the forward and rearward parts of the seat cushion uppersurface. If such contact does not occur due to the belt access gap in the Gabarit,
14

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 partsof the seat cushion upper surfaces.
d) With nothing placed within the adult belt system and with the buckle fastened, it
must be possible to establish a tension 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 directionof the upper seat belt guide. This may result in movement of the lower anchorages
and/or buckles from their anticipated „design position‟. For example, the tension
may cause the lap section of the belt to slide between the rear of the seat base andbottom of the seat back, hence shortening the length of the lap section. However, if
this is considered to be achievable though „normal use‟ then the assessment will bemade with the anchorage/buckle in this position.
3.5.4

All Passenger Seats Suitable for Universal CRS
Where the following requirements are complied with, 1 point shall be awarded to theChild Protection score. The Gabarit shall be installed on the front passenger seat andall remaining rear seats in accordance with the procedure detailed in 3.5.3. If thevehicle is a 2 seater then only the passenger seat is required to meet the requirements.
a) The Vehicle Handbook indicates that all the passenger seats are suitable for use
with a Group 0 and Group 1 Universal CRS (U). ([2], Annex 17, Appendix 3.)b) All passenger seats meet the requirements detailed in the Gabarit Section 3.5.3
above.
c) If an alternative seat, seat-back or safety-belt anchorage adjustment is used for the
Gabarit check, information about the alternative position must be included in the
Vehicle Handbook table giving the information required in 3.5.4 a).

3.5.5

ISOFIX

3.5.5.1

Usability
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 or seats is required to meet the requirements.
a) Each seat which is equipped with ISOFIX anchorages must be marked. It must be
clear which pairs of ISOFIX anchorages should be used together.
b) The location of each ISOFIX anchorage must be marked.
c) The location of each top tether anchorage must be marked.
d) The markings must include both text and a pictogram.
e) The markings must be of conspicuous design and both the text and pictogram must

Version 5.3
June 201115

have colours which contrast with their background.
f) The markings must be permanently visible. Flag type labels are not acceptable.
g) The marking must be permanently attached to the vehicle.
h) Each ISOFIX anchorage must be equipped with permanent guidance which
physically helps the ISOFIX latches to line up with the anchorages.
i) It must be possible to fit the top tether easily, without having to carry out any
preparatory actions on the vehicle other than the simple opening of a cover over
the top tether anchorage, or adjustment of the head restraint position. For example,
it would not be acceptable to have to remove the head restraint.
3.5.5.2

Three or More Positions for Universal ISOFIX
Where the vehicle is in compliance with the following requirements, 1 point shall beawarded to the Child Protection score.
a) Three or more passenger seats are suitable for simultaneous use with a Universal
ISOFIX CRS, equipped with a top tether.
b) All these passenger seats meet the requirements detailed in the “ISOFIX Usability”
section above.

3.5.5.3

Allocations for Largest ISOFIX
Where the vehicle is in compliance with the following requirements, 1 point shall beawarded to the Child Protection score.
a) For vehicles with rear seats, two or more passenger seats are suitable forsimultaneous use with the largest size of rearward facing (Class C) ISOFIX CRS,
Fixture (CRF) ISO/R3.
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) 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.

3.5.6

Integrated CRS

3.5.6.1

Availability of Integrated CRS
Where the vehicle is provided with two or more 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 areprovided with integrated CRS.

3.5.6.2

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

Version 5.3
June 201116

Note: Group I for children of mass from 9kg to 18kg Group II for children of massfrom 15kg to 25kg Group III for children of mass from 22kg to 36kg ([1],Paragraph 2.1.1.)
3.6

Scoring and Visualisation

3.6.1

Scoring
Currently, the maximum number of points available for child protection in vehicles
with rear seats is 49. For vehicles without rear seats, the maximum is 23 points (nodynamic and partial vehicle based assessments).
To ensure that all vehicles can be assessed equally and that none are penalised forbeing a particular body type, i.e. two seater sports car, the relative score weighting of
the available assessments remain the same for each assessment are (dynamic
performance, marking, compatibility, etc.). This means that for vehicles without rearseats the score out of 23 is called to be equivalent to any other vehicle that is assessedout of 49 points.
The tables below summarise the maximum possible score in each (sub)category forvehicles with limited rear space and for vehicles with no rear seats (such as two
seaters).

Version 5.3
June 201117

3.6.2
Section
3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.3.3.1
3.3.3.2
3.3.3.3
3.3.3.4
3.3.3.5
3.3.4
3.3.4.1
3.3.4.2
3.4.
3.4.1
3.4.1.1
3.4.1.2
3.4.2
3.4.2.1
3.4.2.2
3.5
3.5.1
3.5.1.1
3.5.1.2
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.5.4
3.5.5
3.5.5.1
3.5.5.2
3.5.5.3
3.5.6
3.5.6.1
3.5.6.2

Version 5.3
June 2011Child Protection Assessment Points Table (Normal and Limited Rear Space)
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 (Rearward Facing CRS)
Chest
Side Impact
Head Containment
Head Contact with the CRS
CRS Based Assessment
CRS Marking
Additional Marking Requirements (ISOFIX CRS)
Additional Marking Requirements (Vehicle Specific
CRS)
CRS to Vehicle Interface
Additional Interface Requirements (Universal CRS)
Additional Interface Requirements (ISOFIX & other
CRS)
Vehicle Based Assessment
Use of CRS on the Front Seat
Airbag Warning Marking
Airbag Disabling
Provision of Three-point Seat Belts
GabaritAll Passenger Seats Suitable for Universal CRS
ISOFIX
Usability
Three or More Positions for Universal ISOFIX
Allocations for Largest ISOFIX
Integrated CRS
Availability of integrated CRS
One or more for Groups I – III

Total points(24)
switchswitch
(16)
6

49%

2
8
(8)
switch8(12)(8)
switchswitch24%(4)switchswitch
(13)
(8)
2
3
1
1
1
(3)
1
1
1
(2)
1
1

27%

18

3.6.3
Section
3.3
3.4.
3.4.1
3.4.1.1
3.4.1.2
3.4.2
3.4.2.1
3.4.2.2
3.5
3.5.1
3.5.1.1
3.5.1.2
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.5.4
3.5.5
3.5.5.1
3.5.5.2
3.5.5.3
3.5.6
3.5.6.1
4.5.6.2

Child Protection Assessment Points Table (No Rear Seats)
Category
Dynamic Assessment
CRS Based Assessment
CRS Marking
Additional Marking Requirements (ISOFIX CRS)
Additional Marking Requirements (Vehicle Specific
CRS)
CRS to Vehicle Interface
Additional Interface Requirements (Universal CRS)
Additional Interface Requirements (ISOFIX & other
CRS)
Vehicle Based Assessment
Use of CRS on the Front Seat
Airbag Warning Marking
Airbag Disabling
Provision of Three-point Seat Belts
GabaritAll Passenger Seats Suitable for Universal CRS
ISOFIX
Usability
Three or More Positions for Universal ISOFIX
Allocations for Largest ISOFIX
Integrated CRS
Availability of integrated CRS
One or more for Groups I – III

Total points
Not available(12)(8)
switchswitch0%52%(4)switchswitch(11)(7)
2
3
Not available
1
1
(2)
1
Not available
1
(2)
1
1

48%

3.6.3.1

Where a forward facing (FWF) CRS is recommended for the P1½, the overall scorewill be reduced by 4.08% for all types of vehicle. This is equivalent to the 2 point
reduction (out of 49 points) in the dynamic rating, where a P1½ FWF CRS can only
score 10 out of a maximum of 12 points (section 3.3.3).

3.6.3.2

Vehicles without rear seats will automatically score zero points in the all Vehicle
Based Assessments (section 3.5) except in Integrated CRS (section 3.5.6), wherea) No form of passenger airbag disabling is offered, orb) Dealer disconnection of the passenger airbag is offered either independently or in
combination with an airbag switch, regardless whether it meets the requirements of
3.5.1.2.
c) Only a passenger airbag switch is offered that fails to meet the requirements of
3.5.1.2.
Note: For 2009 vehicles without rear seats that are equipped as standard with any
passenger airbag deactivation switch will be eligible to score in all Vehicle Based
Assessments excluding 3.5.1.2.

Version 5.3
June 201119

3.6.4Visualisation
The results of the child protection assessment are not visualised.

Version 5.3
June 201120

4

CONCEPTS AND EXPLANATIONS BEHIND THE ASSESSMENTS

4.1

Dynamic Assessment

4.1.1

Ejection (section 3.3.1)
CONCEPT: The child should be held securely in the restraint and not be ejected fromthe restraint.
Ejection is an unusual and highly 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 foot under the impact shield.

4.1.2

Frontal Impact

4.1.2.1

Head Exposure (Rearward Facing CRS) (Section 3.3.3.3)
CONCEPT: The CRS shell must be in a position to provide some energy absorption
between the child‟s head and an intruding object at all times during the forward
excursion of the dummy.

4.1.3

Side Impact

4.1.4

Head Containment (Section 3.3.4.1)
CONCEPT: The CRS shell must be in a position to provide some energy absorption
between the child‟s head and an intruding vertical plane striking the seat from thestruck side.

4.2

CRS Based Assessment

4.2.1

CRS Marking (Section 3.4.1)
CONCEPT: The information provided on the child seat should be sufficient to allow
the user to correctly install the restraint. Such information should be clear, always
visible to the user and last the life of the seat.
CONCEPT: Users of child seats that can be used rearward-facing should be clearly
informed and reminded of the risks posed, by a frontal protection air bag, to theoccupants of such seats.

4.2.1.1

Additional Marking (Vehicle Specific) (Section 3.4.1.2)
CONCEPT: The user of a Vehicle Specific or Semi-universal ISOFIX restraint should
be aware of the fact that the seat is only approved for use in a limited number ofnamed vehicles.

4.2.2

CRS to Vehicle Interface (Section 3.4.2)
CONCEPT: The child seat should be compatible with the methods of fixation in thevehicle recommended by the car manufacturer.

Version 5.3
June 2011

21

4.3

Vehicle Based Assessment

4.3.1

Use of CRS on Front Seat

4.3.1.1

Airbag Warning Marking (Section 3.5.1.1)
CONCEPT: A warning regarding the hazard posed by a frontal protection air bag tothe occupant of a rearward-facing child restraint should be permanently and explicitly
marked on the vehicle and be designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle.

4.3.1.2

Airbag Disabling Requirements (Section 3.5.1.2)
CONCEPT: The vehicle should make provision for the safe carrying of a child in a
rearward facing CRS in the front passenger seat, ideally without additional actions by
the installer.
CONCEPT: Where a manual switch is used to disable the airbag. Precautions should
be taken to ensure that the switch cannot be operated by a child, without theknowledge of the driver.

4.3.2

Provision of Three-point Seat Belts (Section 3.5.2)
CONCEPT: All forward or rearward facing seats should be equipped with a threepoint belt.

4.3.3

Gabarit (Section 3.5.4)
CONCEPT: The layout of the adult seat belt should ensure compatibility between theadult seat belt and a Universal CRS.

4.3.4

All Passenger Seats Suitable for Universal CRS (Section 3.5.4)
CONCEPT: All possible seating positions should be capable of providing a goodinterface with a conventional Universal child seat, secured by an adult seat belt.

4.3.5

ISOFIX

4.3.5.1

Usability (Section 3.5.5.1)
CONCEPT: The user of a vehicle equipped with ISOFIX anchorages should be madeaware of the existence and location of the anchorages, including any top tether
anchorages. There should also be permanent guidance to facilitate the correct
installation of the CRS.

4.3.5.2

Three or More Positions for Universal ISOFIX (Section 3.5.5.2)
CONCEPT: Vehicles that provide three or more seating positions suitable for a
Universal ISOFIX CRS equipped with top tether should be rewarded.

Version 5.3
June 201122

4.3.5.3

Two or More Positions for Largest ISOFIX (Section 3.5.5.3)
CONCEPT: Vehicles in which at least two ISOFIX positions are capable ofaccommodating the largest size of rearward-facing ISOFIX CRS should be rewarded.

4.3.6

Integrated CRS

4.3.6.1

Two or More Integrated CRS (Section 3.5.6.1)
CONCEPT: Vehicles that provide, as standard, two or more integrated restraints
should be rewarded.

4.3.6.2

One or More Group I-III Integrated CRS (Section 3.5.6.2)
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.

Version 5.3
June 201123

5

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 05 “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.

Version 5.3
June 201124

APPENDIX I

CHILD OCCUPANT ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW

VM to recommend CRS
for 3 and 1½ year old

N

Rear seats
present?

(No rear space, e.g. two seater)

Y(Limited rear space)
Recommended
seats fit in test
position?

N

Smaller CRS
recommended?

N

Y

Version 5.3
June 2011Y

N

Y
Dynamic testing in frontand side impact(VM recommended
seats)

Euro NCAP
identified CRS
that fits?

Extra data
(VM
recommended
seats)?

Dynamic testing in frontand side impact(Euro NCAP seats)N

Dynamic Assessment(max. 24 points)

Dynamic Assessment(Default 0 points)

Dynamic Assessment(max. 24 points)

Dynamic Assessment(Default 0 points)

CRS Marking[VM recommended
seats](max. 8 points)

CRS Marking(Default 0 points)

CRS Marking[Euro NCAP seats](Default 0 points)

CRS Marking[VM recommended
seats](max. 8 points)

CRS to Vehicle Interface[Front and rear positions](max. 4 points)

CRS to Vehicle Interface

CRS to Vehicle Interface(Default 0 points)(Default 0 points)

CRS to Vehicle Interface[Front passenger
position] (max. 4 points)

Use of CRS on front seat(max. 8 points)

Use of CRS on front seat(max. 8 points)

Use of CRS on front seat(max. 8 points)

Use of CRS on front seat(max. 7 points)

ISOFIX(max. 3 points)

ISOFIX(max. 3 points)

ISOFIX(max. 3 points)

ISOFIX(max. 2 points)

Integrated CRS(max. 2 points)

Integrated CRS(max. 2 points)

Integrated CRS(max. 2 points)

Integrated CRS(max. 2 points)

Maximum points 49(Achievable score 100%)

Maximum points 49(Achievable score 27%)

Maximum points 49(Achievable score 76%)

Maximum points 23(Achievable score 100%)

25

APPENDIX II
Gabarit specification

All dimensions are in mm

Version 5.3
June 201126