The first US crash test evaluation for electric cars has demonstrated that automakers are using the same safety features for electric vehicles as they use for petrol-powered automobiles.
Thanks to the standard electronic stability control, the Volt and the Leaf models have earned Top Safety Pick honors, the IIHS award for cutting edge crash protection.
"What powers the wheels is different, but the level of safety for the Volt and Leaf is as high as any of our other top crash test performers," says Joe Nolan, the Institute's chief administrative officer.
The Chevrolet Volt is a hybrid car that features a petrol engine as well as an electric one. The car can use its electric power to cover 35 miles (56.3 km) on a single charge while the gas engine is used when the electric motor’s batteries are depleted.
The Nissan Leaf on the other hand is a full electric powered car that features a hard to believe mileage of 73 miles (117.4 km) on a single charge.
"The way an electric or hybrid model earns top crash test ratings is the same way any other car does," Nolan says.
"Its structure must manage crash damage so the occupant compartment stays intact and the safety belts and airbags keep people from hitting hard surfaces in and out of the vehicle," he adds.
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