Electric vehicles (EVs) are tested using the same crash test protocols as internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles by organizations like Euro NCAP in Europe and NHTSA/IIHS in the U.S.
- Structure and weight: EVs tend to be heavier due to the battery, which can help in crash scenarios by better absorbing impact energy. However, higher mass can also mean greater force in multi-vehicle crashes.
- Frontal and side impact: EVs typically perform very well thanks to reinforced battery protection zones and absence of large engines in the front, allowing for better crumple zones.
- Fire risk: Modern EVs have strict battery safety management systems. Although battery fires are rare, they are treated seriously in crash evaluations.
- NCAP ratings: Many EVs, such as the Tesla Model 3 or Hyundai IONIQ 5, have received 5-star safety ratings, performing on par with or better than comparable ICE vehicles.
Overall, EVs are generally as safe—or even safer—than traditional vehicles when evaluated under standardized crash tests.