The Tesla Cybertruck has proven its mettle in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Transport Safety Administration (NHTSA), earning a perfect 5-star safety rating. Tesla recently released footage of a Cybertruck undergoing a 35 mph head-on collision with a concrete wall, demonstrating the vehicle’s structural integrity. The video, filmed in 2023 prior to the truck’s November launch, showcases the controlled crumple zone at the front of the vehicle while the cabin remains largely intact.
This positive result comes after much speculation about the Cybertruck’s safety performance due to its unconventional, angular design. The NHTSA crash test footage, now available on Tesla’s YouTube channel, shows the Cybertruck impacting the wall from multiple angles, providing a detailed view of the impact. In addition to the frontal crash test, the video also includes footage of rollover tests, further highlighting the vehicle’s safety features.
While the 5-star rating is certainly a win for Tesla, it’s important to note that the NHTSA tests primarily focus on occupant safety. The tests don’t address pedestrian safety, a concern given the Cybertruck’s sharp edges and substantial weight. Further evaluation is needed to understand the potential risks to pedestrians in a collision with the Cybertruck.
Another key point is that the Cybertruck hasn’t yet undergone testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The IIHS employs a more rigorous testing protocol than the NHTSA, including the small overlap test, which simulates a collision with a narrow object like a tree or utility pole. This test is crucial for evaluating a vehicle’s structural integrity in more challenging real-world scenarios.
The Cybertruck joins the ranks of other electric pickups, such as the Ford F-150 Lightning, in achieving a 5-star NHTSA rating. This achievement underscores the growing emphasis on safety within the electric vehicle segment.
The NHTSA conducts its safety tests independently at its Vehicle Research and Test Center. Staffed by NHTSA personnel, the center carries out research and testing to advance the agency’s mission of enhancing road safety. These tests play a critical role in informing consumers about vehicle safety performance and encouraging manufacturers to prioritize safety in vehicle design.
The Cybertruck’s success in these tests affirms Tesla’s commitment to safety and sets a positive precedent for the future of electric pickup trucks. However, future IIHS testing results will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the Cybertruck’s overall safety profile.
