Electric vehicles in the U.S. incorporate specific passive safety measures to protect both occupants and the high-voltage battery during a crash.
- Reinforced battery enclosures: Built from high-strength steel or aluminum to prevent penetration or deformation during impact.
- Optimized crash zones: With no engine block, engineers can design larger crumple zones front and rear for improved energy absorption.
- Automatic battery disconnect: The high-voltage system automatically shuts down after a collision to prevent electric shock or short circuits.
- Underbody shielding: Heavy-duty plates protect the battery from debris or bottom-out impacts.
- Thermal isolation: Battery packs are designed to prevent heat from spreading between cells, reducing the chance of thermal runaway.
These features play a key role in ensuring EV occupant safety while protecting critical electrical components in U.S. crash scenarios.