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Nissan Leaf sets EV safety benchmark
Date: 26 May 2011
The Nissan Leaf has become the first electric vehicle to gain a 5 star safety rating from Euro Ncap.
The five-door hatchback has a battery pack fitted below the rear Seat compartment, which Euro Ncap said ensures occupants are well protected in a crash and also eliminates the risks of battery damage and high voltage leakage.
Michiel van Ratingen, Euro Ncap secretary general, said: "The Nissan Leaf proves that EVs can be equally as safe as common cars. The standard is now set for the next generation of cars on the European market."
The third generation Ford Focus also achieved a 5 star rating in the latest safety tests, with an impressive score of 72% for pedestrian protection.
Euro Ncap also commended the Focus for the safety benefits of its new Active City Stop system and Lane Keeping Aid.
Another car scooping 5 stars was the Volvo V60 estate, which comes with standard safety features such as ESC, seatbelt reminder and a driver-set speed limiter. The V60 gained a 100% core for Safety Assist.
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