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First EV crash test produces four-star result
Date: 24 February 2011
European safety organisation Euro NCAP has revealed results of the first electric vehicle to be subjected to its procedure.
The Mitsubishi i-Miev has been awarded four stars out of five, a rating which will also be projected to the Citroen C-Zero and Peugeot Ion models that are being spun-off the Mitsubishi.
"We recognise the efforts done by Mitsubishi to demonstrate that plug-in battery powered cars can be as safe as others," said NCAP secretary general Dr Michiel van Ratingen. "It shows that future five star accolades for EVs are not unthinkable. Whether produced by established car manufacturers or new players in the market, consumers should expect to get electric vehicles that meet the same safety standards as conventional vehicles."
Subjected to the same test process as conventional models, NCAP particular attention to the post-crash battery integrity and proper functioning of the battery cut-off switch.
Also announced in the latest round of Euro NCAP results was a five star rating for the Mitsubishi ASX and Nissan Juke, while the organisation has also awarded five stars to the Hyundai ix20 as its twin vehicle, the Kia Venga, achieved the same result when tested last year.
In addition, Euro NCAP has given luxury brand Infiniti an Advanced reward for its Lane Departure Prevention system, taking the number of Advanced awards handed out to 11. Given for advanced safety system that help prevent or mitigate the extent of accidents, previous recipients include Volvo for its City Safe system and lane support systems from VW, Vauxhall and Audi, as well as Mercedes and Honda pre-crash systems.
