Tesla CEO Elon Musk has stated that the upcoming all-electric Cybertruck is anticipated to be “much safer per mile” than other trucks in its category. This statement follows recent scrutiny regarding the Cybertruck’s occupant safety after Tesla shared slow-motion crash test videos during its delivery event. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of visible deformation of the truck during a head-on collision at 35 MPH, leading to questions about the vehicle’s crumple zones.
During the Cybertruck’s delivery event, Musk addressed concerns by emphasizing the low center of gravity, suggesting that the vehicle’s design prevents it from rolling over in the event of a collision. He also highlighted the potential advantage in an argument with another car, stating, “If you’re ever in an argument with another car, you will win.”
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The discussion around safety extends beyond occupants to pedestrians, with Musk and Tesla enthusiasts contending that the Cybertruck’s safety software and sloped front-end contribute to enhanced safety compared to other vehicles in its class. However, trucks, in general, pose greater risks to pedestrians in crashes, as highlighted by a study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
The IIHS study revealed that trucks with hood heights exceeding 40 inches are approximately 45% more likely to result in a fatality during a pedestrian impact. While Tesla has not disclosed the Cybertruck’s front-end height, the study’s findings raise concerns about potential risks in pedestrian-related incidents.
Moreover, the Cybertruck faces challenges in meeting European safety requirements, particularly related to its sharp protrusions. European regulations mandate rounded corners of at least 3.2 millimeters for external projections to prevent severe injuries in pedestrian impacts. Tesla’s Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, has indicated that meeting this requirement with the Cybertruck’s production method is deemed “impossible.”
As Tesla aims to demonstrate the safety of the Cybertruck through engineering and software advancements, questions persist regarding occupant and pedestrian safety, especially considering the unique design elements that set the vehicle apart in its class.