Fiat CEO Criticizes New Euro NCAP Safety Protocols
Arnaud Belloni argues the updated testing regime fails to reflect evolving vehicle technology standards.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Automotive — General
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Fiat CEO Arnaud Belloni has publicly criticized the recent revisions to Euro NCAP safety testing protocols. The overhaul, which took effect in 2026, marks the 14th major update to the organization's testing standards.
Why it matters
Euro NCAP updates these procedures to keep pace with modern vehicle technology and autonomous features. However, the organization's rigorous testing criteria mean that some established models, such as the Toyota Corolla, have recently lost their ratings.
Euro NCAP protocols are updated every 3 years, with current standards applied to vehicles tested through 2028. Ratings have a shelf life of 6 years and now cover 4 distinct safety categories: Safe Driving, Crash Avoidance, Crash Protection, and Post-Crash Safety.
The players
Arnaud Belloni
Arnaud Belloni is the current CEO of Fiat, having assumed the leadership role in August 2026.
Euro NCAP
Euro NCAP is the European organization responsible for assessing the safety of new vehicles through standardized crash testing.
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is a globally popular compact passenger vehicle that has faced recent rating challenges under the new protocols.
The details
The updated testing regime penalizes manufacturers for placing essential vehicle functions inside touchscreen menus, citing driver distraction. These protocols also evaluate the efficacy of autonomous emergency braking and lane-keep assist systems.
Timeline
1992: ANCAP organization founded
1996: Euro NCAP organization founded
February 1997: Euro NCAP published earliest crash-test results
2026-2028: Current Euro NCAP protocols in force
January 1, 2025: Toyota Corolla models lost safety rating
Roadmap
The introduction of the 2026 Euro NCAP protocol overhaul marks a significant shift toward digital-first safety requirements in the automotive industry. This evolution forces automakers to balance modern interior design aesthetics against rigid safety mandates that penalize complex touchscreen interfaces.
Drivers may notice that some previously high-rated vehicle models are temporarily unrated as testing standards evolve. Prospective car buyers should verify if a specific model’s safety rating is current, as older certifications may have expired under the new 6-year rule.
The takeaway
Vehicle safety ratings are increasingly sensitive to interior design choices, particularly those involving touchscreen functionality. Consumers should prioritize safety certifications when comparing vehicle models, as manufacturers continue to navigate these tightening regulatory frameworks.
Further reading
For broader context on current vehicle safety trends, visit the Automotive — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Cool Down.
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