Using a radar built into the front end of the van, Front Assist recognises critical distances to the vehicle in front and helps to ensure safe stopping. In any dangerous situations Front Assist reacts here in two stages: in the first the assistance system warns the driver with audible and visual signals of any vehicle in front driving slowly or suddenly braking and of the associated risk of collision. In parallel it gets the vehicle ready for emergency braking – by applying the brake pads and alerting the brake assistant. If the driver fails to react to the warning, a one-off short jolt of the brake indicates in the second stage the looming danger of a collision and the brake assistant’s responsiveness is further increased. If the driver then hits the brakes, full braking power is immediately available. If the driver does not brake strongly enough, Front Assist increases the braking pressure to the required level, so that the vehicle comes to a stop before reaching the obstacle.
The system also includes the City Emergency Braking function, which provides assistance at low speeds of under 18 mph. If the driver fails to see or react to an obstacle, the system automatically applies the brakes and ensures that the speed of any collision is reduced. Ideally, it completely prevents the vehicle from running into the obstacle.
(ends)
Notes to editor
* Killed and serious injured accidents where first point of impact was the front of vehicle involving other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists (Department for Transport, 2016)
** Figures according to Thatcham Research, the motor insurers’ automotive research centre and respected experts in safety, security and crash repair
For more information, please contact Grant McPherson, Product Affairs Manager, on 01908 548210 or 07774 684222, or Kate Thompson, Head of Press and Public Relations, on 01908 601478 or 07713 265562.
About Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles
Over 60 years ago, the first Transporter arrived in the UK, creating a blueprint which others would follow: a van which gets the job done efficiently and reliably. Today, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a diverse model range – from the compact Caddy, through the evergreen Transporter and sturdy Crafter panel vans, dropsides and tippers, to the Caravelle passenger carrier, California camper and the Amarok pick-up. The vehicles are as versatile and dependable as Volkswagens have always been, but now they’re more spacious, more comfortable and safer than ever.
Every van also comes backed by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ ‘Working With You’ promise. It’s a commitment to work in partnership with businesses, providing them with the best products and aftersales support, whether they’re buying one or a thousand vans. For more information visit www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.
Media Contacts
After hours telephone:
Kate Thompson 07713 265562
Grant McPherson 07774 684222
Nicki Divey 07802 248310
Press and Public Relations
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK
Yeomans Drive
Blakelands
Milton Keynes MK14 5AN
Telephone 01908 601478
www.vwpress.co.uk
05218/KT/tf