Thatcham press for ESC

New research published by the Department for Transport shows vehicles equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are 25% less likely to be involved in fatal accidents.

In addition, new research released yesterday by Thatcham reveals that less than half of new cars sold in the UK have ESC fitted as standard. This compares with 58% in Germany and 75% in Sweden.

Whilst progress on standard fitment has been made, with a rise of 7% over 2006 figures, this level of fitment remains disappointing, since approximately 380 lives could be saved annually if the UK motorist had the same fitment levels as those in Scandinavia.

Researchers from the insurer-funded research centre based in Thatcham, Berkshire are urging manufacturers to fit ESC as standard across their model ranges to help prevent the risk of collisions and cut unnecessary deaths.

Matthew Avery, Thatcham’s Crash Research Manager commented: ‘Whilst we have seen some improvement of fitment levels Thatcham’s message to vehicle manufacturers’ must be – you know ESC can make a real difference in preventing accidents occurring, you have an obligation to fit this technology as standard across all your model ranges.’