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Reports suggesting future safety criteria around driver vision could force a major redesign of popular utes such as the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger are unfounded, according to an ANCAP spokesperson.
Claims that utes were in the firing line emerged after EuroNCAP technical director Richard Schram spoke to Australian and New Zealand journalists about penalising “really big pickups” for their lack of forward vision.
But ANCAP spokesman, Drew Creighton, said the proposed protocols won’t mean a “radical redesign” and will most likely affect large American vehicles such as the RAM 1500 and Chevy Silverado rather than Australia’s smaller utes.
He added that environmental standards pose a much larger threat to the future of Australia’s current ute designs than the upcoming “direct vision” protocols.
“Direct vision relates to what a driver can physically see from the driving position,” said Mr Creighton. “This includes factors such as window size and placement, pillar design, seating position, mirrors and camera systems.”
These safety protocols, aimed at improving pedestrian and cyclist safety, aren’t expected to come into effect until 2029 and will apply to all vehicles, not just utes.
“As with all future protocol developments, any proposed requirements will be subject to a structured consultation process with vehicle manufacturers, suppliers and other stakeholders, alongside supporting research and analysis, before any final criteria are confirmed,” Mr Creighton said.
