The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) is set to implement a significant change in its safety rating system, with hundreds of vehicle safety ratings due to expire on January 1, 2025.

This policy shift will affect a wide range of vehicles currently on the market and could influence consumer choices and manufacturer strategies.

ANCAP Safety Ratings Set to Expire for Hundreds of Vehicles in January 2025

Expiration date:

January 1, 2025

Affected vehicles:

Hundreds of models tested before 2020

Reason:

To ensure ratings reflect the latest safety standards and technologies

The expiration of these ratings is part of ANCAP's ongoing efforts to maintain the relevance and accuracy of its safety assessments. As vehicle technology and safety standards evolve rapidly, older ratings may not accurately reflect the current state of vehicle safety.

Implications of the rating expiry:

ANCAP Safety Ratings Set to Expire for Hundreds of Vehicles in January 2025

For consumers:

  • Need to reassess the safety of vehicles they're considering
  • May influence purchasing decisions, especially for older models

For manufacturers:

  • Pressure to update and re-test vehicles to maintain ratings
  • Potential impact on sales of older models without current ratings

For the used car market:

  • Possible devaluation of vehicles without current safety ratings
  • Increased importance of recent manufacture dates for resale value

ANCAP has stated that the expiry of these ratings does not necessarily mean the affected vehicles are unsafe. However, it does indicate that their safety performance has not been assessed against the latest protocols.

ANCAP Safety Ratings Set to Expire for Hundreds of Vehicles in January 2025

Consumers are advised to check the ANCAP website for the most current safety ratings when considering a vehicle purchase. Manufacturers are expected to respond by updating their vehicles and seeking new ratings for popular models.

This move by ANCAP aligns with similar policies implemented by other safety rating organizations worldwide, reflecting a global trend towards more frequent and rigorous safety assessments in the automotive industry.