Euro NCAP has released the results of its latest truck safety tests, with five of seven vehicles in the Regional Distribution category awarded 5-star ratings. All models assessed met the organization’s CitySafe standard. In the Utility category, one vehicle also received a 5-star rating and was classified as CitySafe.
The latest tests focused on rigid trucks in the Regional Distribution category, which makes up around 10% of the heavy truck market. These two-axle vehicles, weighing up to 18 metric tons, are typically fitted with curtain-sided or box bodies and are widely used in logistics, operating between urban centers and freeway-linked hubs with high annual mileages. Compared with larger trucks, they generally offer better driver visibility.
Five of the seven trucks tested in the Regional Distribution category achieved Euro NCAP’s maximum 5-star rating – the first time this level of performance has been reached. The results indicate progress among commercial vehicle manufacturers: in 2024, when Euro NCAP began truck testing, only two models attained five stars. That figure has more than doubled within two years.
Each model is tested in three key areas: safe driving (vision, driver monitoring, assistance systems), crash avoidance (active braking for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, lane support) and post-crash safety (rescue information). The models are then awarded an overall star rating. In addition, a CitySafe award is given to every truck that meets a minimum threshold in the assessments most relevant to operation in dense urban environments.
Scania L-Series
Leading Euro NCAP’s independent testing is the Scania L-series, which achieved an overall score of 90%. Designed with a low-entry cab, it was praised for strong direct vision in urban environments and high crash avoidance performance, with its pedestrian and cyclist safety systems scoring 93%. While optimized for city use, its full safety specification delivers strong all-round protection.
5-star performance
Safety is seen as a key selling point, which can only be a good thing for truck operators and other road users.
The Mercedes-Benz Actros and Volvo FM followed the Scania L-series closely with overall scores of 88%, just ahead of the Scania P-series on 87%. Also achieving 5-star status, the MAN TGM scored 80% – a first for the manufacturer. The Actros and FM were highlighted for consistent performance across all categories, while the MAN TGM was praised for strong highway safety, particularly its lane support and autonomous emergency braking systems.
Both the Scania and MAN models have seen their scores climb from three stars to five stars in Euro NCAP tests, reflecting an intensified focus on safety engineering.
Industry response and standardization
The testing highlights differences in how manufacturers offer safety equipment, with some including systems as standard and others offering them as optional extras. The DAF XD was noted for having many safety features fitted as standard, while other manufacturers rely on optional equipment to achieve 5-star ratings. Although these systems typically represent a small share of total vehicle cost, they are considered important for protecting drivers and other road users.
Looking ahead
While the 2026 results for Regional Distribution trucks show continued safety improvements, Euro NCAP is already preparing the next phase of its program. Testing of City Distribution trucks (up to 12 metric tons), which include some of the most common models on European roads, is scheduled for release in November.
Matthew Avery, director of strategic development at Euro NCAP said, “It is positive to see commercial vehicle manufacturers responding to Euro NCAP testing and showing impressive commitment to improving the safety of their new trucks.
“Five 5-star trucks in one round of testing is a very welcome record. And it means fleet operators and their buyers have never had such strong choice of safe trucks in the Regional Distribution sector. But there is a caveat: when ordering a new addition for fleets, buyers need to tick the right boxes for the equipment listed on the datasheet to ensure the best-possible safety. While it might be a slightly more expensive truck initially, it’s a price worth paying to protect your colleagues, other road users and your brand’s reputation. And as we consult with truck manufacturers and partners on how Euro NCAP will revise our testing protocols from 2028, we fully anticipate that this trend toward safer trucks will only continue.”
In related news, Swiss Council for Accident Prevention joins Euro NCAP as affiliate member
