MOST people have no idea how modern active safety systems in cars work.

A survey of 110 members of the public by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders showed that 58% could not name any active safety systems in a car and only 29 named ABS, even though it is now standard on all new cars. Only 5% knew about ESP and 6% were unable to name any active or passive safety feature.

SMMT chief executive Christopher Macgowan said: ‘Many of the latest technologies are becoming more common in new cars but many people are not aware of the many basic safety systems fitted to modern cars, let alone the investment in the latest active safety systems which are helping to drive down injuries and deaths on the roads.’