IIHS tests: Tesla Cybertruck protects passengers well, but headlights need improvement

Fears about the safety of the Tesla Cybertruck were not justified: the electric pickup truck confidently passed the tough crash tests of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and confirmed a high level of occupant protection. However, problematic headlights and little noticeable reminders about seat belts did not allow it to claim the honourable title of Top Safety Pick.

Here's What We Know

The Cybertruck scored a 'good' rating in the updated partial overlap frontal crash test. The dummy in the driver's seat faced a minimal risk of head, chest and leg injuries, while the rear passenger was noted to have only a moderate risk of chest damage. The Cybertruck also performed well in collision avoidance tests: the electric pickup avoided all crash scenarios day and night, including situations with a moving obstacle that is travelling towards the vehicle.

The main weakness is the lighting system. According to the IIHS, the headlights create excessive glare and leave blind spots on the left and when turning left. The right side of the road is illuminated noticeably better, because of which the lighting is recognised as uneven.

Six more electric models participated in the latest round of IIHS tests. The BMW i4, Chevrolet Blazer EV and Volkswagen ID.Buzz were also rated "good," the Tesla Model 3 was limited to "acceptable," and the Ford F-150 Lightning and Nissan Ariya failed the tests, showing a high risk of injury to rear passengers.

Due to stringent lighting requirements and tightened standards, none of the electric vehicles tested received top honours from the IIHS. So far, the Rivian R1T leads among electric pickup trucks in safety, earning the highest possible Top Safety Pick+ title for 2024.

Source: Carscoops