The AEBS – in VW’s case, Front Assist with City Emergency Braking – is standard on the Caddy, Transporter and Crafter models from the start of this month (June).
The move promises van fleet operators improved safety and insurance premium reductions of around 10%.
“We’re really proud to be the first to fit AEB as standard to all our vans,” says Sarah Cox, head of marketing for VW Commercial Vehicles.
“This means safer vehicles on our roads, leading to fewer accidents, lower costs for operators and potentially fewer lives lost – what could be more important?’
Thatcham, the automotive research centre, says AEBS is “probably the most significant development in vehicle safety since the seat belt”, with the potential to save more than 1,000 lives and 120,000 casualties over the next ten years.
Its chief executive Peter Shaw adds: “Volkswagen is a trailblazer and should be applauded for being the first manufacturer to fit AEB as standard on all its vans in the UK... We call upon all vehicle manufacturers to follow Volkswagen’s lead, and fit AEB as standard across all their light commercial vehicles as soon as possible.”
VW’s Front Assist function uses a radar to firstly warn the driver with visual and audible signals if the vehicle ahead is driving slowly or braking suddenly. It then delivers a one-off short jolt of the brake and if the brakes are applied, full braking power is available immediately. If no action is taken, Front Assist intervenes and increases braking pressure to ensure the vehicle stops in time.
VW’s AEBS also includes City Emergency Braking, which provides braking assistance at speeds of less than 18mph.