NHTSA Gives Tesla Cybertruck 5-Star Safety Rating Amid Controversy

Washington, D.C. – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has awarded the Tesla Cybertruck a 5-star safety rating following independent crash tests conducted on the vehicle. This comes despite ongoing skepticism regarding the design’s safety, with some critics referring to it as a “death machine.”

The NHTSA’s testing included evaluations for both frontal and side impacts, where the Cybertruck excelled. It achieved a 5-star rating for driver protection during frontal collisions and a 4-star rating for passenger safety. Furthermore, the vehicle scored exceptionally well in side crash tests, showcasing its strength in collision scenarios.

However, the Cybertruck did not fare as well in rollover assessments, receiving a 4-star rating with a reported 12.40% rollover risk in single-vehicle loss-of-control situations. The results raise additional concerns about the inherent risks posed by its unique design.

While Tesla has advocated that the Cybertruck’s architecture enhances safety, questions about potential hazards have persisted. Critics have pointed out design features that may hinder rescue attempts in emergencies, particularly regarding heavy accidents that might render conventional “Jaws of Life” tools ineffective. The unique structure of the vehicle’s walls and pillars could complicate extrication efforts for trapped passengers.

Additionally, potential risks to pedestrians have sparked debate, as the Cybertruck’s sharp edges and unconventional shape have raised alarms among safety advocates. NHTSA has acknowledged the need for new guidelines to evaluate the impact of vehicle designs on pedestrian safety, as traditional tests do not adequately assess this aspect.

In response to the ratings, a Tesla spokesperson reiterated the company’s commitment to safety, citing the integration of advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) present in all Tesla vehicles. These systems include recognition capabilities to mitigate collision risks.

As more drivers consider the Tesla Cybertruck, discussions surrounding its safety will likely continue, fueled by contrasting views on its unorthodox design and the potential implications for drivers and pedestrians alike. While the 5-star rating from the NHTSA officially acknowledges the vehicle’s crash-test performance, the broader safety narrative remains an area of contention.