Introduction to Thatcham

Known by most as simply “Thatcham”, the Motor Industry Repair Research Centre is based in Thatcham, Berkshire. The expert team at the centre assesses the safety and security of all new cars on behalf of the British insurance industry.

This research is used to produce the New Car Security Ratings and the ratings for the likelihood of injury by whiplash. Thatcham also tests extensively to see how much cars cost to repair. The Association of British Insurers then uses the data collected to help it decide on insurance groups for new cars.

Engineers at Thatcham also test and rate security devices, and makers of these items can apply to have their products tested and given a Thatcham rating.

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