In its latest crash test, Euro NCAP tested a China made vehicle for the first time, the Landwind CV9. Although the Chinese maker claims it has revamped the car to meet the strictest European safety standards, the mid-sized MPV only managed a two star rating.
However, Euro NCAP noted that the CV9 came close to meeting the three star threshold for adult protection, hence there is still hope.Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP's Secretary General, commented:
"It is clear that vehicles from China, India and other emerging countries will in the next few years become commonplace on European roads. Euro NCAP will ensure that consumers know what levels of safety are offered by these vehicles. By highlighting differences in safety performance, we aim to drive the safety of all cars towards and beyond the high levels we see from more well established manufacturers. We are confident that Landwind and others will rise to this challenge".
In 2005, Landwind tried to attract European buyers with the X6 SUV, based on Isuzu Rodeo/Opel Frontera underpinnings. However, it failed miserably after ADAC conducted a crash test and rated it with zero stars. For non-European reader