Through its #SaferCarsForAfrica programme, the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) has been advocating for the cars on our roads to meet higher standards, which carmakers are now taking seriously.
In recent weeks, both Chery and Hyundai have announced that they would be introducing safer versions of some of their most popular models in South Africa.
These include an all-new variant of the Chery Tiggo 7, featuring seven airbags and advanced driver assistance systems, and a new Hyundai Grand i10 with Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) as standard.
Both models were previously tested under the AA’s testing protocols and found lacking in key safety parameters.
The association expressed concern after Global NCAP test results revealed that the Hyundai Grand i10 has received a zero-star rating for adult occupant protection.
“Despite achieving three stars for child occupant protection, the results clearly demonstrate serious and unacceptable shortcomings in the level of safety provided to adults in the version sold across African markets, including South Africa,” the AA said.
“The Hyundai Grand i10, manufactured in India, offers only basic safety equipment such as driver and passenger airbags.”
The AA noted that the hatchback does not come standard with side body or head protection, nor does it include Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Regarding the Tiggo 7, the SUV received a two-star adult occupant protection rating and three stars for child occupant protection “due to the absence of standard side head protection for front and rear occupants”.
“The results clearly demonstrate shortcomings in the level of standard safety provided to adults in these models sold across African markets, including South Africa,” the AA declared.
Following these instances, the association had to clarify its position in South Africa’s vehicle safety ecosystem.
The AA explained its role is to inform, and not to prescribe, as it does not have regulatory authority to prohibit the sale of vehicles, nor does it endorse specific brands or models.
“What the AA does, and will continue to do, is expose safety shortcomings through publishing and commenting on independent test results,” it said.
Chery and Hyundai introduce safer “Executive” models
The concerns raised by the Global NCAP testing have been largely resolved thanks to the introduction of, coincidentally, two “Executive” branded models.
It needs to be said that these models are not replacements, and that the ones tested by the AA and deemed unsafe for South Africa will still be sold.
Instead, the Executive derivatives of both the Grand i10 and Tiggo 7 will be offered as safer versions within their respective ranges.
The Hyundai Grand i10 Executive includes side and curtain airbags as well as Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) as standard, directly addressing concerns raised during testing.
“We take a proactive and continuous approach to improving our vehicles,” says Stanley Anderson, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa.
“The introduction of the Executive derivative reflects our commitment to enhancing safety and overall product value in a highly competitive segment.”
He explained that the model’s update underscores the brand’s intent to retain competitiveness in the entry-level market while it reinforces brand value through innovation and differentiation.
On the other hand, the Chery Tiggo 7 Executive was developed “in response to customer feedback and growing expectations around comfort, convenience and in-car technology”.
The model is fitted with seven airbags, including full-length side curtain airbags and a front centre airbag, as well as a comprehensive driver-assistance package.
This introduces lane departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot detection, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning and autonomous emergency braking. Chery also included an electronic child safety lock.
“Customers are looking for more than just style and value. They want intelligent safety, modern convenience and features that make everyday driving easier,” said Verene Petersen, Marketing Manager at Chery South Africa.
“This model is our response to those expectations, and another expression of Chery’s commitment to delivering safety without compromise.”
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