Tesla Cybertruck Achieves Impressive Crash Test Ratings

At last, the Tesla Cybertruck has received its first set of crash test ratings in the United States. Mocked and praised by different groups, the gaudy all-electric pickup has been at the center of many debates lately. One of those is just how safe its odd design is when it comes to crashes.

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With the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration releasing the results of its first crash tests with the Cybertruck, we finally have some data instead of emotion and anecdotes. But we’re sure this won’t end the debates about the crashworthiness or general safety of the EV.

According to NHTSA, the Cybertruck performed excellently in the frontal crash test. It achieved an overall five star rating and the same for the driver’s side. For the front passenger, however, it was given four stars.

For the overall side crash rating, the Tesla also earned five stars. It achieved all five stars for the side barrier tests, plus the side pole for front and rear seats.

Not surprisingly, where the Cybertruck didn’t achieve a five star rating was for rollover resistance. After all, any truck or SUV struggles in that area thanks to the higher ride height. While EV advocates have argued having the vehicle weight lower would make it so electric models wouldn’t have this issue, the reality isn’t quite as rosy.

Still, the Tesla achieved a four star rating in that area with a 12.4 percent risk of rollover, which isn’t too shabby. But we expect this fact will be highlighted by people who wan to criticize the all-electric pickup for whatever reason.

The Tesla Cybertruck has been involved in some high-profile fatal accidents, fueling criticism. There even is a report which claims the EV is 17 times more likely to be involved in fire fatalities than the infamous Ford Pinto, although that claims has come under fire.

We expect the Cybertruck will continue to be a controversial vehicle choice for some time and for a number of varying reasons. But for now, NHTSA has shown it performs well enough in crash tests.

Images via NHTSA