The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has called on the Australian Competition Commission (ACCC) to broaden the scope of its market study into the new car retailing industry to include safety rating information.
It follows results from a recent survey conducted by ANCAP revealing that nine in ten new vehicle buyers believe ANCAP safety ratings should be displayed on all new cars purchased.
ANCAP CEO James Goodwin believes a recent study undertaken by the ACCC has failed to recognise vehicle safety as an important consumer demand.
“It is unfortunate the issues paper released by the ACCC fails to recognise the importance of safety rating information as a key element in the new car buying process.
“This study is an important step in understanding consumer needs in a changing and competitive marketplace but information about vehicle safety ratings and how safety is presented in showrooms and advertising should be a focus area.”
“Consumers invest significant amounts of money in a new car purchase so it is important to ensure safety information is correctly marketed and no competitive advantage is gained from brands or dealers through the misuse of vehicle safety ratings.”
The ACCC issues paper is now available to view.
It covers a review of industry practices in the sector to identify risks posed to consumers.