Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla Motors is justifiably proud of their Model S sedan which has scored the highest ever rating. Although the official scoring does not go past 5-star, the Model S turned in an effective rating of 5.4 stars.
Much of the credit for these high ratings goes to the fact that an electric motor is much smaller than an internal combustion engine. Because there is less space taken up by an engine, there is more body space that can help absorb energy in a collision. And, there is also less concern about keeping an internal combustion engine from being forced into the passenger compartment.
On the rollover test, "the Model S refused to turn over via the normal methods and special means were needed to induce the car to roll." This was because of its low center-of-gravity which comes from the location of the battery pack, which is largely under the floor.
Synergistic benefits such as this will help further ensure that electric vehicles don't become relegated to a single-issue curiosity, but that they represent real improvements in transportation.
via: Tesla Press Release
via Green Living - Building, Home, Auto & Lifestyles copy http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/EcoGeek/~3/hDxLtSR0rOU/3885-tesla-s-gets-highest-ever-safety-rating
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