The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) released its latest safety evaluation results on September 3, 2026. Under the new 2026 assessment protocols, three new models from China – the Aion UT, Geely E2 (named Xingyuan in China, EX2 in some markets)和 Leapmotor B05 (named Lafa 5 in China) – have all achieved the maximum five-star safety rating.

The latest round of testing also evaluated the Cupra Raval. While the vehicle earned a four-star rating with its standard safety equipment, it achieved a five-star rating when equipped with an optional “Safety Pack,” which enhances active technologies for low-speed driving and junction scenarios.

Rising influence of Chinese brands

Euro NCAP noted that Chinese-manufactured vehicles now account for 7% of all new car sales in the European Union and nearly 10% in the UK. Since 2021, the number of Chinese models submitted for Euro NCAP safety testing has increased nearly tenfold, signalling a concerted effort by these manufacturers to meet the safety standards expected by European consumers.

“Today’s results clearly demonstrate that Chinese carmakers are still working hard to match the high standards expected by European consumers,” 说过 Dr. Aled Williams, Programme Director at Euro NCAP.

Performance breakdown

• Aion UT: The Aion UT proved to be a strong all-rounder. However, testers noted a heavy reliance on the centre touchscreen for driving controls and identified a 68% accuracy rate for its speed limit recognition system. It also lacks a child presence detection system.
• Geely E2: As China’s top-selling model, the E2 impressed with its use of physical controls and standard Child Presence Detection. While its automatic emergency braking (AEB) system showed some inconsistency, the vehicle demonstrated high-level protection across most categories.
• Leapmotor B05: The B05 excelled in crash protection, scoring maximum points in side barrier and side pole impact tests. While its AEB performance was exceptional, the vehicle lacks an adaptive restraint system for varying occupant statures and could benefit from more physical switches for infotainment controls.