Safety is paramount for car buyers, and electric vehicles (EVs) are no exception. While discussions around EVs often revolve around range, charging times, and performance, it’s crucial to recognize that Safest Electric Cars are engineered with high safety standards, often exceeding those of traditional gasoline vehicles. Just like their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, EVs must meet rigorous safety regulations. However, many modern EVs go above and beyond, incorporating cutting-edge safety technology and achieving top safety ratings.
For those prioritizing safety in their next vehicle purchase, particularly within the burgeoning EV market, it’s reassuring to know that numerous electric models are recognized for their exceptional safety performance. To simplify your research, we’ve compiled a list of electric vehicles that have earned the coveted Top Safety Pick awards from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for 2024. This list highlights the safest electric cars currently available, giving you confidence in your choice for you and your family’s well-being. Our data is sourced directly from the 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick List to ensure accuracy and provide the most up-to-date information on safest electric cars.
1. Hyundai Ioniq 6: A Top Safety Pick+ Midsize Electric Sedan
Hyundai has solidified its position as a leader in the EV market, offering a range of accessible and high-quality electric cars. Notably, Hyundai’s commitment extends to safety, with models like the Ioniq 6 earning the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ award in 2024. This sleek and comfortable sedan stands out as the sole electric vehicle in the midsize category to achieve this highest safety distinction, proving itself as one of the safest electric cars in its class.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Crash Test Ratings: Exceeding Safety Expectations
The Top Safety Pick+ designation signifies exceptional safety performance, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6 lives up to this standard. The IIHS evaluates vehicles based on a rating system of Good, Acceptable, Marginal, and Poor. The Ioniq 6’s crashworthiness ratings are particularly impressive, contributing to its status as one of the safest electric cars.
Ioniq 6 Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Acceptable |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Ioniq 6 Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Ioniq 6 Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Good |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Beyond these impressive crash test results, the Ioniq 6 further enhances its safety profile with standard lane departure warning and prevention, as well as blind spot monitoring. These advanced safety features are instrumental in preventing accidents and contribute to the Ioniq 6’s Top Safety Pick+ status, solidifying its place among the safest electric cars on the market.
2. Genesis Electrified G80: Luxury and Safety in an Electric Package
Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury division, continues to impress with its blend of opulence and performance. The Genesis Electrified G80, the electric iteration of their flagship luxury sedan, is no exception. This vehicle not only delivers a premium driving experience but also prioritizes passenger safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ award and distinguishing itself as one of the safest electric cars in the large luxury segment. In fact, it is the only large luxury car to achieve this highest rating in 2024, even surpassing its ICE counterpart.
Genesis G80 Electric: Setting New Standards for Electric Luxury Car Safety
The Genesis Electrified G80 stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to safety. Its robust construction and advanced safety technologies have resulted in outstanding crash test performance, making it a leader among safest electric cars.
Genesis G80 Electric Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Genesis G80 Electric Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Genesis G80 Electric Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Acceptable |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Marginal |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Genesis G80 Electric’s exceptional crashworthiness ratings provide drivers with peace of mind, knowing they are traveling in one of the most impact-resistant vehicles available. Its recognition as a Top Safety Pick+ underscores its position as a leader in both luxury and safety within the electric vehicle market, making it a prime example of safest electric cars.
Genesis Electrified G80
3. Hyundai Ioniq 5: Safe and Stylish Electric SUV
Hyundai’s dedication to safety extends beyond sedans to their SUV lineup, with the Ioniq 5 also earning recognition as a Top Safety Pick. This electric SUV combines a futuristic design with impressive features and, crucially, strong safety credentials. The Ioniq 5 stands out as one of only two small electric SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick award, further cementing Hyundai’s reputation for producing safest electric cars.
Hyundai Ioniq 5: A Safe Bet in the Electric SUV Segment
The Ioniq 5’s Top Safety Pick status is a clear indication of Hyundai’s commitment to building safe electric vehicles across their model range. Its performance in IIHS crash tests is a testament to its robust design.
Ioniq 5 Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Ioniq 5 Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Trim Dependant) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Ioniq 5 Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Good |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Hyundai Ioniq 5’s consistent “Good” ratings in crashworthiness demonstrate its ability to protect occupants in various collision scenarios. Coupled with its modern design and features, the Ioniq 5 is a compelling and safe electric car choice in the SUV market.
4. Subaru Solterra: Electric Safety, Subaru Style
Subaru has long been synonymous with safety, and their entry into the EV market, the Solterra, continues this tradition. Unsurprisingly, the Solterra earned a Top Safety Pick award, reinforcing Subaru’s reputation for producing safe vehicles. The Solterra, alongside the Ioniq 5, is one of the two safest small electric SUVs recognized by the IIHS, proving that Subaru’s safety-first approach extends to their safest electric cars.
Subaru Solterra: Continuing Subaru’s Legacy of Safety in the Electric Era
The Subaru Solterra’s Top Safety Pick award is a natural extension of Subaru’s well-established commitment to vehicle safety. Its strong performance in IIHS testing reflects this dedication.
Solterra Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Solterra Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Solterra Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Good |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Subaru Solterra’s consistently high safety ratings across the board underscore its position as a leader in safety within the electric SUV segment. While it didn’t achieve the coveted Top Safety Pick+ , its solid performance makes it a very safe option and a worthy contender among safest electric cars.
5. Nissan Ariya: Nissan Steps Up EV Safety
Nissan joins the ranks of safest electric cars with its electric SUV, the Ariya, earning a Top Safety Pick award. While Nissan might not be traditionally known for leading in safety, the Ariya demonstrates a significant step forward in this area for the brand’s EV offerings. This family-friendly SUV combines practicality with enhanced safety features, making it a notable addition to the list of safest electric cars.
Nissan Ariya: Proving Nissan’s Commitment to Electric Vehicle Safety
The Nissan Ariya’s Top Safety Pick recognition signals Nissan’s growing focus on safety in its electric vehicle development. Its IIHS ratings highlight its strong safety performance.
Ariya Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Ariya Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Ariya Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Acceptable |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good+ |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Nissan Ariya’s “Good+” rating for LATCH ease of use is particularly beneficial for families with young children, further enhancing its appeal as a safe electric car choice for families. Its overall Top Safety Pick award positions it as a competitive and safe option in the electric SUV market.
6. Audi Q4 E-Tron: Luxury Electric SUV with Impressive Safety
Audi continues its legacy of safety innovation with the Audi Q4 e-tron, a mid-size electric SUV that has earned a Top Safety Pick award. Audi has a long history of prioritizing safety, and the Q4 e-tron upholds this tradition in the electric era. Sharing its platform with the Volkswagen ID.4, the Q4 e-tron benefits from a robust safety architecture, solidifying its place among the safest electric cars in the luxury segment.
Audi Q4 E-Tron: Luxury Brand, Top-Tier Safety
Audi’s reputation for safety is well-deserved, and the Q4 e-tron exemplifies this commitment in their electric vehicle lineup. Its IIHS ratings reflect Audi’s dedication to occupant protection.
Audi Q4 E-Tron Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Audi Q4 E-Tron Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Trim Dependant) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Audi Q4 e-tron’s consistent “Good” ratings in crash tests demonstrate its strong structural integrity and ability to protect occupants in collisions. As a luxury electric SUV with a Top Safety Pick award, the Q4 e-tron offers a compelling combination of safety and premium features, making it a standout among safest electric cars.
White 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
7. Genesis Electrified GV70: Sporty and Safe Electric SUV
Genesis continues to dominate the safest electric cars list with the Electrified GV70, a sporty and luxurious electric SUV that has earned a Top Safety Pick award. Both the electric and ICE versions of the GV70 share this safety accolade, highlighting Genesis’s overarching commitment to safety across their vehicle range. The GV70 Electric represents the fourth Hyundai Motor Group vehicle on this list, showcasing the group’s leadership in electric vehicle safety.
Genesis GV70 Electric: Hyundai Motor Group’s Safety Focus
The Genesis GV70 Electric further solidifies Hyundai Motor Group’s position as a leader in vehicle safety. Its Top Safety Pick award demonstrates the group’s consistent dedication to high safety standards in their EVs.
Genesis GV70 Electric Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Genesis GV70 Electric Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Genesis GV70 Electric Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Genesis GV70 Electric’s consistent “Good” ratings across crash tests reinforce its reputation as a safe and luxurious electric SUV. Hyundai Motor Group’s strong showing on the IIHS Top Safety Pick list underscores their commitment to producing some of the safest electric cars available.
8. Tesla Model Y: Tesla Joins the Ranks of Safest EVs
Tesla, while sometimes facing scrutiny regarding safety and reliability, achieves a significant win with the Model Y. This mid-size luxury SUV has earned a Top Safety Pick+ award, placing it among the safest electric cars on the road according to the IIHS. This recognition is a testament to Tesla’s advancements in vehicle safety, demonstrating that their focus on technology and efficiency also extends to occupant protection.
Tesla Model Y: Safety Achievement for the EV Pioneer
The Tesla Model Y’s Top Safety Pick+ award marks a notable achievement for the brand in terms of safety recognition. Its IIHS ratings highlight its robust safety performance.
Tesla Model Y Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Tesla Model Y Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Tesla Model Y Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Tesla Model Y’s near-perfect safety scores, with “Good” ratings across all crashworthiness and crash avoidance categories, solidify its position as one of the safest electric cars. While the “Acceptable” rating for LATCH ease of use is a minor drawback for families with young children, the Model Y’s overall safety performance is undeniably impressive.
White 2023 Tesla Model 3
9. Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback: Stylish and Safe Electric Sportback
The Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback joins its sibling, the Q4 e-tron, on the safest electric cars list, also earning a Top Safety Pick award. This sportier, coupe-like version of the Q4 e-tron maintains the same high safety standards as the standard model. Sharing its safety ratings with the Volkswagen ID.4, the Q4 e-tron Sportback offers both style and substance, ensuring it’s also among the safest electric cars in its segment.
Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback: Safety Mirrors Style
The Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback demonstrates that style and safety can go hand-in-hand in the electric SUV market. Its safety ratings are identical to the standard Q4 e-tron, reflecting its robust safety design.
Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Trim Dependant) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback’s consistent “Good” crash test ratings confirm that it prioritizes occupant safety just as much as its stylish design. For those seeking a safe electric car with a sporty aesthetic, the Q4 e-tron Sportback is a compelling option.
10. Tesla Model Y AWD: All-Wheel Drive Safety
The IIHS has separately listed the Tesla Model Y AWD, which earns a Top Safety Pick award, slightly differing from the Top Safety Pick+ awarded to the standard Model Y. While All-Wheel Drive (AWD) often implies enhanced safety in terms of handling and traction, in this case, the AWD Model Y has a slightly lower safety rating due to LATCH system differences. Despite this minor distinction, the Tesla Model Y AWD remains a very safe vehicle and is included in our list of safest electric cars.
Tesla Model Y AWD: Excellent Safety with All-Wheel Drive Capability
The Tesla Model Y AWD’s Top Safety Pick award underscores its strong safety performance, even with a slight variation from the standard Model Y’s rating. Its IIHS ratings highlight its overall safety.
Tesla Model Y AWD Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Tesla Model Y AWD Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Tesla Model Y AWD maintains “Good” ratings across all crashworthiness and crash avoidance tests, demonstrating its robust safety. The slight difference in Top Safety Pick status compared to the standard Model Y is primarily due to LATCH system considerations, which may be less relevant to consumers without young children. The AWD Model Y remains a highly safe electric car choice.
11. Audi Q8 E-Tron: Large Electric SUV Prioritizing Safety
The Audi Q8 e-tron, Audi’s largest electric SUV, also earns a Top Safety Pick award, proving that safety is a priority even in larger EVs. This spacious and comfortable SUV offers a commanding presence and, importantly, strong safety performance. The Q8 e-tron is one of only four large SUVs to achieve a Top Safety Pick, and remarkably, electric SUVs outnumber ICE SUVs in this safety category by three to one, showcasing the safety advancements in safest electric cars.
Audi Q8 E-Tron: Large and Safe Electric SUV Option
The Audi Q8 e-tron’s Top Safety Pick award demonstrates that large electric SUVs can also prioritize and achieve high levels of safety. Its IIHS ratings reflect its commitment to occupant protection.
Audi Q8 E-Tron Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Audi Q8 E-Tron Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Trim Dependant) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Audi Q8 e-tron’s consistent “Good” ratings in crash tests demonstrate its robust construction and commitment to passenger safety, even in a larger SUV format. Its Top Safety Pick award solidifies its position as a safe electric car choice in the large SUV segment.
12. Rivian R1S: Luxury Electric SUV with a Focus on Safety
Rivian has quickly established itself as a premium electric SUV brand, and the R1S earns a Top Safety Pick award, reinforcing its commitment to safety alongside luxury and off-road capability. The R1S stands out as the only non-Audi brand to achieve a Top Safety Pick in the large SUV category, highlighting Rivian’s dedication to producing safest electric cars even in the competitive luxury market.
Rivian R1S: Luxury and Safety Combined in an Electric SUV
The Rivian R1S’s Top Safety Pick award demonstrates that Rivian prioritizes safety in its luxury electric SUVs. Its IIHS ratings showcase its strong safety performance.
Rivian R1S Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Marginal |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Rivian R1S Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Rivian R1S Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Poor |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
While the Rivian R1S receives a “Marginal” rating in the Moderate Overlap Front test and a “Poor” rating for seatbelt reminders, its overall “Good” ratings in other crash tests and its Top Safety Pick award still position it as a very safe electric car option in the large luxury SUV category.
13. Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback: Another Safe and Stylish Audi SUV
2024 Audi SQ8 E-Tron Sportback
Audi further dominates the safest electric cars list with the Q8 e-tron Sportback, which also earns a Top Safety Pick award in the large SUV category. Mirroring the safety performance of its standard Q8 e-tron counterpart, the Sportback version offers a stylish, coupe-like design without compromising on safety. Audi’s consistent presence on the Top Safety Pick list underscores their commitment to producing safest electric cars across their SUV lineup.
Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback: Stylish Sportback, Solid Safety
The Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback mirrors the safety performance of the standard Q8 e-tron, demonstrating that style doesn’t come at the expense of safety in Audi’s electric SUV offerings.
Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Trim Dependant) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback’s identical safety ratings to the standard Q8 e-tron confirm that it is equally focused on occupant safety. For consumers seeking a safe electric car with a sportier SUV design, the Q8 e-tron Sportback is an excellent choice.
14. Rivian R1T: Electric Truck with Impressive Safety Credentials
Rivian rounds out the list of safest electric cars with the R1T, the only electric pickup truck to earn a Top Safety Pick award in 2024. The R1T combines rugged capability, long-range performance, and, importantly, strong safety ratings. Outperforming even its SUV sibling, the R1S, in some safety aspects, the R1T demonstrates that Rivian is committed to producing safest electric cars across its vehicle types, including pickup trucks.
Rivian R1T: Setting a New Safety Standard for Electric Trucks
The Rivian R1T’s Top Safety Pick award is a significant achievement for an electric pickup truck, showcasing Rivian’s commitment to safety in this vehicle category. Its IIHS ratings highlight its robust safety performance.
Rivian R1T Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Rivian R1T Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
Rivian R1T Seat Belt and Child Restraint Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good |
(Data collected from the IIHS)
The Rivian R1T’s consistently “Good” ratings in crash tests, and its Top Safety Pick award as the only electric pickup on the list, underscore its position as a leader in safety within the electric truck segment. For those seeking a safe electric car in a pickup truck format, the Rivian R1T is an exceptional choice.
Conclusion:
This list of IIHS Top Safety Pick EVs clearly demonstrates that safest electric cars are not just a concept but a reality. These vehicles prove that electric powertrains and advanced safety technologies can go hand-in-hand, offering consumers peace of mind without compromising on environmental responsibility or performance. As the EV market continues to grow, safety will remain a crucial factor for buyers, and these top-rated electric cars are leading the way in creating a safer future for driving. The advancements in EV safety are undeniable, making them not just environmentally friendly and technologically advanced, but also demonstrably safe alternatives to traditional ICE vehicles.
