AfMA concurs with ANCAP SAFETY’s recent concerns regarding incorrect safety claims made by electric vehicle importer, ACE Electric Vehicles Group, in relation to three potential new models entering the Australian vehicle fleet.
“We have serious concerns regarding the claims made by ACE Electric Vehicles in relation to the safety of their vehicles,” ANCAP Chief Executive, James Goodwin (pictured above) said earlier last week.
“Despite the claims made by the distributor in the media, these vehicles have yet to be independently tested for safety either here in Australia or by our European counterparts. The safety credentials of these vehicles are unknown,” Mr Goodwin added.
The statement was issued after the brand’s CEO, Greg McGarvie, made a claim on Channel 7’s Sunrise program that ACE’s product range meets some kind of safety standard equivalent to ANCAP in Europe.
“The vehicle is German-designed and has been designed to European standards, and they have ANCAP ratings over there.” Mr McGarvie said when prompted on potential safety issues with a flat-packed vehicle.
While the claims might indeed turn out to be entirely valid following proper Australian testing, “jumping the gun” on such an unverified claim is risky business – and ultimately adds a degree of uncertainty for fleet buyers more than anything else.
ANCAP’s Mr Goodwin was keen to note the danger of manufacturers making unsubstantiated claims to the media.
“It is important to recognise that ANCAP is only in a position to test a vehicle once certified and approved for sale in Australia, and after it is compliant with the regulatory standards of the Australian Design Rules (ADRs).”
“We would strongly caution any brand against making claims on safety performance prior to independent ANCAP assessment, but welcome the opportunity to discuss the claims and potential testing with the distributor.”
ACE Electric Vehicles Group is currently promoting three models – the ACE Cargo (van), ACE Yewt (ute) and ACE Urban (micro car).
