In the automotive industry, crash testing is a mandatory step to ensure passenger safety. International crash test standards ensure consistent results and are recognized globally.
1. Purpose of crash test standards
- Evaluates impact resistance and ensures safety of products in hazardous situations.
- Check the durability and effectiveness of safety systems such as airbags and seat belts.
- Provides important information to manufacturers to improve product design and to consumers to make purchasing decisions.
2. Important Crash Test Standards
2.1. FMVSS Standards
FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) is a standard issued by NHTSA.
- FMVSS 208: Frontal impact occupant protection (airbags, seat belts).
- FMVSS 214: Side impact, chest injury reduction.
- FMVSS 301: Post-Collision Fuel Leak Inspection.
This standard helps meet vehicle distribution conditions in the US, increasing product reputation.
2.2. ECE & UN Regulations
ECE/UN regulations are widely applied in Europe and many other countries.
- ECE-R34: Fuel system fire safety.
- ECE-R95: Side impact, passenger protection.
- ODB: Offset frontal collision.
This is a mandatory condition for vehicles to be certified for circulation in the EU.
2.3. Euro NCAP
- Euro NCAP conducts independent assessments and publishes results publicly.
- Protection of adults, children, pedestrians
- ADAS – Safe driving assistance
2.4. IIHS
IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) is famous for:
- Small Overlap Test: 25% offset frontal impact – difficult to score high.
- IIHS Side Impact 2.0: Simulates realistic high-speed, heavy-vehicle crashes.
2.5. RCAR
RCAR focuses on low-speed collisions (10–15 km/h) to reduce repair costs:
- Front/rear bumper durability assessment
- Test the impact absorption capacity
- Optimizing insurance costs for customers
3. Ernst’s Role in Supporting Businesses
With over 30 years of experience, Ernst offers:
- Testing equipment meets ISO, ECE, FMVSS, Euro NCAP standards
- Smart data analysis software, shortening R&D cycle
- Multi-scenario collision simulation solution, reducing the number of vehicles that need to be destroyed
Meeting international crash test standards is key to achieving global safety certification. With Ernst equipment and solutions, businesses can:
- Reduce testing costs
Accelerate product development
Increase reliability & competitiveness
Contact Ernst Vietnam now for free consultation and system demo!