In this Fleet Mobility Today (FMT) Expert Talks episode, host Daniel interviews Alejandro Furas, Secretary General of Latin NCAP, about vehicle safety progress in Latin America.

Since 2010, Latin NCAP has tested over 180 models, driving significant improvements in basic safety equipment (airbags, ABS, ESC) and the recent incorporation of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as AEB and lane support. While Latin America still lags Europe by 6–7 years in NCAP standards and up to 20 years in regulations, manufacturers (Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, VW, and several Chinese brands) are responding positively, offering 5-star cars even in popular segments.

Furas stresses the “safe system” approach that combines better vehicles, infrastructure, and driver training, and highlights the private sector’s key role (especially fleet managers) in accelerating change. He advocates mandatory Latin NCAP star-rating labels on vehicles and the adoption of retrofit technologies like Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA).

The episode closes with a light recommendation to visit Uruguay, Furas’ home country.