Holden Ute - First Utility to Achieve 5-Star Safety in Australia

VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA – October 20, 2009: Holden’s VE Ute range has become the first utility in Australia to receive a maximum five star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) or the Euro New Car Assessment Program (EuroNCAP)

This follows the announcement last month that Holden achieved another Australian safety first by launching the first Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) to offer six airbags as standard across the range.

The latest result means Holden’s entire locally manufactured vehicle range now carries a five star safety rating from ANCAP.

The ANCAP result reflects the long list of safety features found standard across the VE Ute range including side impact airbags, curtain airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) which incorporates Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Brake Assist (EBA) and Traction Control System (TCS).

Holden Vehicle Structure & Safety Integration Manager, Steve Curtis said Holden had a long and proud history of delivering safety firsts.

“Exceptional safety has always been our priority,” Mr Curtis said.

“Ensuring Ute met the same high standard as the rest of the VE range has been a real focus.

“Our efforts have produced the only light commercial vehicle in Australia to offer 5-star safety as standard across the range.

“This endorsement from ANCAP is a very clear indication that we are on the right path of continual improvement.”

VE Omega Utes that are converted to dual fuel LPG will also receive the five star safety rating.