The electric Nissan Leaf has become the first plug-in car to receive five stars from the NCAP (European New Car Assessment Program). Euro NCAP tests vehicles in frontal impact, side impact, side pole impact and the potential for whiplash.
The Leaf’s lithium-ion battery pack, which is positioned below the rear-seat compartment, suffered no damage during any of the tests. The five-seat Nissan Leaf received an 89 percent rating for adult occupant safety, 84 percent for its on-board safety-assist systems, 65 percent in pedestrian safety and 83 percent for child occupant safety.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety conducted its first mainstream plug-in vehicle crash tests in April of 2011, and both the 2011 Chevrolet Volt and the 2011 Nissan Leaf were named “Good” for their front, side, rear, and rollover crash protection and both received the IIHS’ Top Safety Pick title.
