The Scania L-series electric utility truck has achieved a five-star rating in Euro NCAP’s truck safety assessment program, earning the CitySafe seal of approval. The 20-tonne refuse truck, tested in 6×2 rigid configuration with a 270-kW electric powertrain, received high marks in both Safe Driving (87%) and Collision Avoidance (92%) categories.
Highlights
- Scania L-series achieves highest safety rating: The electric utility truck scored 87% in Safe Driving, 92% in Collision Avoidance, and 80% in Post-Crash Safety.
- Volvo maintains five-star lineup: The Volvo FH secured five stars, making Volvo the only manufacturer with all models capable of top safety ratings.
- Ford F-MAX debuts with three stars: The new heavy goods vehicle entrant earned solid marks but requires additional ADAS features for improvement.
- IVECO S-WAY improves to two stars: The updated diesel truck doubled its previous one-star rating after achieving GSR2 compliance.
Scania L-Series Safety Features
The L-series incorporates safety into its fundamental design through several key elements:
- Low-mounted cab providing enhanced driver visibility in urban environments
- Camera monitoring systems offering continuous views around the vehicle, eliminating traditional mirror blind spots
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) monitoring nearside turns to prevent cyclist collisions
- Geofenced speed limiting supporting drivers during stop-start operations
- Cyclist dooring warning alerting when doors open into approaching traffic
The full suite of driver assistance systems is available as an option, enabling fleet operators to equip vehicles for busy urban environments where refuse trucks commonly operate.
Volvo FH Continues Five-Star Performance
The Volvo FH secured a five-star rating and CitySafe award in both tractor and rigid configurations. The model scored 77% in Safe Driving, 85% in Collision Avoidance, and 80% in Post-Crash Safety. This result brings Volvo’s five-star portfolio to three models, joining the FM and FH Aero.
Volvo remains the only truck manufacturer whose complete model lineup achieves five-star safety certification.
Ford F-MAX Earns Three-Star Debut Rating
The Ford F-MAX, tested as a 4×2 tractor unit for fleet long-haul operations, earned a three-star rating in its Euro NCAP debut. The truck scored 66% in Safe Driving, 56% in Collision Avoidance, and 80% in Post-Crash Safety.
Euro NCAP noted that while a high beltline compromises direct driver visibility, the F-MAX features a high-performing camera monitoring system for rearward visibility. The organization recommended adding AEB for nearside turning collisions to improve future ratings.
IVECO S-WAY Doubles Previous Rating
The updated IVECO S-WAY, tested in both 4×2 tractor and 6×2 rigid configurations, improved from one star to two stars. The diesel-powered truck is now GSR2-compliant and features effective adaptive cruise control.
However, Euro NCAP identified significant room for improvement in pedestrian and cyclist protection to move beyond its current highway-focused safety approach. The model scored 68% in Safe Driving but only 20% in Collision Avoidance.
Euro NCAP Truck Safety Ratings Summary
| Truck Model | Category | Rating | Safe Driving | Collision Avoidance | Post-Crash Safety | CitySafe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scania L-series | Utility Rigid | 5 | 87% | 92% | 80% | ✓ |
| Volvo FH | Fleet Long Haul (Tractor/Rigid) | 5 | 77% | 85% | 80% | ✓ |
| Ford F-MAX | Fleet Long Haul Tractor | 3 | 66% | 56% | 80% | — |
| IVECO S-WAY | Fleet Long Haul (Tractor/Rigid) | 2 | 68% | 20% | 80% | — |
Industry Implications
Matthew Avery, Director of Strategic Development at Euro NCAP, stated that Scania has demonstrated how intelligent vehicle design combined with sophisticated driver assistance systems can achieve excellent safety levels. He emphasized that fleet operators can now equip drivers with vehicles proven to protect vulnerable road users in urban environments.
For complete test results, visit www.euroncap.com.
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