ROLLE, Switzerland (May 25, 2011) - The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) has awarded the 100% electric Nissan LEAF the highest level of car safety following its performance in the independent organization's stringent crash tests. The zero-emission vehicle received a five-star rating, the first electric vehicle ever to earn this distinction.
LEAF among safest vehicles on two continents
European automobile safety testing standards applied to the Nissan LEAF determined that it is among the safest vehicles on the road in Europe, as well as being one of the safest vehicles on the road in the United States, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Not only was LEAF a good pick for its occupants, it was safer than average for pedestrians as well.
The European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) evaluates front, side and rear impacts. Not only did the passengers fare well, the battery pack mounted beneath the vehicle also withstood all impacts.
“We are not surprised by these results,” said Jerry Hardcastle, Nissan’s vice president of vehicle design & development. “Nissan LEAF has gone through more tests than any car we have ever produced. On top of the conventional offset barrier and side impact tests, we have tested the electrical system in every way to ensure it can never be overcharged and that the isolation programme works as intended in a crash.”
As different global regions have different safety testing protocols, it is encouraging to see the LEAF perform well in multiple safety testing environments.