VW vans to include AEB

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has announced it will fit all its vans with autonomous emergency braking, which are now available as standard on current Caddy, Transporter and Crafter models. The system, dubbed Front Assist by VW, recognises dangerous distances to the vehicle in front and helps to ensure safe stopping. In dangerous situations, it will first warn the driver of on-road hazards, and brake the car if there is no response. The system also includes City Emergency Braking, which assists the vehicle at speeds below 30km/hr and will reduce speed, apply the brakes and even steer the car as needed. Peter Shaw, CEO at Thatcham Research, said, “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.  The truth is that we are seeing a year on year rise in deaths and serious injuries involving vans which this technology can help to avoid.” According to Thatcham Research, autonomous emergency braking systems are “probably the most significant development in vehicle safety since the seat belt” and could potentially save over a thousand lives in the next decade. “Producing safe, reliable vans has been at the heart of our brand for over 60 years. But technology is advancing at a pace and we’re continually seeing more and better ways to keep drivers safe on the road,” said Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ head of marketing, Sarah Cox. Volkswagen’s commercial vans are sold in modest quantities in New Zealand. Last month, 18 new Caddy units were sold, and two Transporters. The most popular van model was the T6, with 28 sales, which will come with Front Assist in future generations.