Merc Actros gains five star NCAP rating

During Euro NCAP’s testing of HGVs, 10 trucks were assessed and eight were awarded a CitySafe rating. The designation is applied to HGVs that are equipped to tackle the challenges and hazards of driving in urban environments.

Because of their size and weight, HGV crashes are the most severe on European roads. Although trucks account for less than 3% of vehicles on Europe’s roads, they are involved in 15% of accident fatalities.

The results for the Actros came after the company declined to take part in Euro NCAP’s inaugural test of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in 2024. For 2025 testing, it submitted three Actros models of differing cab heights. With improvements made to the safety equipment fitted and system performance, the latest and lowest cab Actros was awarded five stars by Euro NCAP, an increase from its previous three-star rating.

Two other models in the Actros range, the Actros F and the Actros L ProCabin, with taller cabs, were awarded four stars due to inferior driver vision.

However, all three were awarded the CitySafe label, which Euro NCAP said is message to fleet buyers and operators that the Actros range can be a safe choice for city operations when specified with the correct safety options.