ESP now compulsory in certain EU vehicles

Date: 9/11/2011

The European Commission is attempting to improve driver safety through the introduction of new mandatory requirements.

As of November 1st 2011, all new cars and light commercial vehicles in the European Union (EU) should have the anti-skid Electronic Stability Program (ESP) installed as standard.

In 2010, 41 per cent of motors in these categories were fitted with the safety system, which was first developed by Bosch in 1995.

Furthermore, 63 per cent of all cars and commercial vehicles manufactured in Europe had ESP installed and it is hoped the new regulations will increase this figure further.

President of the Bosch Chassis Systems Control division Dr Werner Struth said: "ESP can prevent up to 80 per cent of all skidding accidents. It is the most important vehicle safety system after the seat belt."

The Institute of Advanced Motorists recently claimed the government should trial a new 80mph motorway speed limit on a controlled stretch of road to assess whether it would be safe for drivers.

Posted by Sarah Bailey