It is the third time, when the crash test of Chinese vehicle was conducted. The first one in November 2005 was off-road Landwind, and in June 2007 – middle class limousine – Brilliance BS6. In both cases, results were the worst in the history of German association and stopped expansion of these brands in Europe practically. This time the compact sedan Brilliance BS4 was tested.

Some history first. After disastrous result of BS6, the producers and German importer – HSO Motors Europe company, announced fast overtaken. To improve safety, 60 components were modified:
1) not specified number of elements were substituted,
2) airbags and front seats were restructured,
3) front seat belts were fitted in stretchers with tense brace ,
4) door panels, roof and front columns were modernized.

Only 79 days after test conducted by ADAC, the independent organization from Spain – IDIADA conducted the next trial, but on the modernized prototype this time. Specialist noted safety level for three stars then. Content HSO Motors Europe’s representatives were informing, that all improvements would be fund in smaller model as well (BS4) and it happend in fact, but regulation of awarding stars as well…

Summarizing, since February 2009, safety of adults, children and pedestrians have been still judged. An important newness is resignation from counting notes in particular categories to stars, so the car gets only stars for the total score. Safety equipment is also scored.

Results of BS4 crash test were described as typical for cars from 90-ties. Hit in deformable obstruction with the speed of 64 km/h, caused notable deformation of front body part. Specialists from ADAC noted sharp metal elements, which caused danger for driver’s and passenger’s knees when entering the cab. Additional danger for driver’s ankles were „entering” pedals. Engineers pointed also dysfunctions of front airbags, which should be better situated to minimalize head injuries. Side airbags were then noted on a quite good level. They protected head and ribs, but the venter was protected a little bit less. Missing ESP was the final hit for tested BS4.

Summurizing, Brilliance BS4 – though much better results than BS6 – did not received any star in the crash test conducted by ADAC. The question is, if the car maker will take fast action, to cover worse image of Chinese brand…

Source: ADAC

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