Tesla earns top Euro NCAP safety ratings
Euro NCAP’s latest safety testing has awarded the maximum five-star rating to models from DS, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Škoda and Tesla.
The Tesla Model 3 and Škoda Scala have been highly praised for their all-round safety performance in this group of five-star rated cars.
Matthew Avery, director of research, Thatcham Research, said, ‘The Tesla Model 3 achieved one of the highest Safety Assist scores we have seen to date. Its Collision Avoidance Assist system is first class, with its Autonomous Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning systems showing high levels of performance.
‘Tesla has done a great job of playing the structural benefits of an electric vehicle to its advantage. Impact performance is enhanced by the absence of a mechanical engine and the car’s low centre of gravity. The Tesla Model 3 really benefits from its all electric-architecture.’
The Tesla Model 3 has been commended for its Adult Occupant protection (96%), Child Occupant protection (86%) and Vulnerable Road Users (74%) scores.
It includes a range of safety features to assist drivers in emergency situations, including a Speed Assistance System, Lane Departure Avoidance and Blind Spot Collision Warning. As a comfort driving feature, Tesla’s AutoPilot system was not assessed by Euro NCAP. However, Euro NCAP and Thatcham Research will rate such systems in a separate programme set to launch in 2020.
Matthew added, ‘Tesla has made a virtue of safety in its marketing and it is great to see a car now living up to that promise. It would be exciting if Tesla delivered the same benefits for drivers of older models via over-the-air updates.’
The Škoda Scala achieved high scores for Adult Occupant protection (97%), Child Occupant protection (87%), Vulnerable Road Users (81%) and Safety Assist (76%), and is now regarded as one of the safest vehicles in the small family car category.
The Mercedes-Benz B Class and Mercedes-Benz GLE also performed well, achieving five-star Euro NCAP ratings. Both vehicles have AEB Pedestrian and AEB Cyclist fitted as standard, as well as speed assistance and lane assist technology to maximise safety. All Mercedes-Benz cars launched since 2014 have achieved five-star ratings.
The DS 3 Crossback and Kia Ceed scored five-stars if buyers purchase the optional safety pack. Without the safety pack, the cars achieved four-star ratings.
