IIHS: heavy-duty pickups fail crash-avoidance tests, some vans fare much better

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• IIHS testing reveals gaps in heavy-duty pickup safety tech
• Why bigger trucks face tougher challenges
• Commercial vans outperform many pickups in recent IIHS trials
  • Factors that helped vans perform better
• Models and manufacturers under the microscope
• What fleet managers should consider now
• Industry and regulatory angles to watch
• Practical tips to reduce crash risk in large vehicles

The recent round of safety evaluations from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has put a spotlight on the limits of modern crash-avoidance systems in larger vehicles. While some commercial vans handled the tests with relative ease, several heavy-duty pickups from major US brands did not meet the expectations of safety engineers, raising questions for fleets and private buyers alike.

IIHS testing reveals gaps in heavy-duty pickup safety tech

The IIHS assessed how well advanced driver-assist systems prevent or mitigate collisions. In many cases, heavy-duty pickups lagged behind smaller trucks and vans. These vehicles often carry more mass and sit higher off the road, which can complicate sensor performance.

Ford, Chevy, GMC, and Ram heavy-duty models were specifically noted for struggling in the latest evaluations. The problems centered on inconsistent automatic emergency braking and limited early detection in some simulated crash scenarios.

Why bigger trucks face tougher challenges

There are technical and design reasons heavy-duty pickups may underperform in crash-avoidance tests.

• Higher ride height and greater bumper-to-sensor distance can reduce sensor coverage.
• Large, heavy front ends change vehicle dynamics in emergency maneuvers.
• Manufacturers may focus calibration on towing and payload capabilities first.
• Aftermarket modifications common on heavy trucks can interfere with sensors.

Commercial vans outperform many pickups in recent IIHS trials

Some commercial vans scored noticeably better in the same rounds of testing. Purpose-built cargo and passenger vans often incorporate collision-mitigation technology in ways tailored to urban delivery and shuttle use.

Factors that helped vans perform better

• Lower front profiles that allow sensors a clearer field of view.
• Standardized factory configurations with fewer aftermarket changes.
• Design focus on driver visibility and urban maneuvering.

Not all vans were flawless, but the gap suggests vehicle architecture matters as much as the raw sensors themselves.

Models and manufacturers under the microscope

The spotlight fell on major American brands supplying the heavy-duty segment. Industry observers say these results should prompt closer scrutiny of how manufacturers tune driver-assist systems for larger chassis and payload requirements.

• Ford — heavy-duty models face calibration and detection issues in tight scenarios.
• Chevy — some models trailed smaller counterparts in braking response tests.
• GMC — challenges mirrored those of sibling-brand pickups in a few trials.
• Ram — heavier-duty variants showed inconsistencies in emergency avoidance.

What fleet managers should consider now

For organizations that operate heavy trucks or vans, the IIHS findings carry practical consequences.

1. Re-evaluate vehicle choices with an emphasis on tested crash-avoidance performance.
2. Specify factory-installed ADAS packages rather than relying on aftermarket add-ons.
3. Prioritize models with strong IIHS and NHTSA ratings for urban, delivery, or passenger duties.
4. Implement driver training focused on the limits of automated systems.

Industry and regulatory angles to watch

Safety advocates expect pressure on manufacturers to improve calibration for larger vehicles. Regulators may respond by refining test protocols or encouraging wider adoption of robust standards across all weight classes.

• Updated testing procedures could better reflect heavy-vehicle dynamics.
• Manufacturers may accelerate software updates and sensor upgrades.
• Insurers could adjust rates based on demonstrated avoidance performance.

Practical tips to reduce crash risk in large vehicles

Whether purchasing or operating a heavy pickup or a commercial van, drivers and fleet managers can take steps to reduce collision risk.

• Keep sensors clean and unobstructed; check them after any bodywork.
• Install factory-rated ADAS options when possible.
• Require regular software and calibration updates from dealers.
• Train drivers on system limitations and proper stopping distances.
• Limit aftermarket changes that can interfere with sensor geometry.