Safety is paramount when choosing a new vehicle, and electric cars are no exception. For many drivers, the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) brings questions about safety alongside excitement about range and performance. While discussions often revolve around battery technology and charging speeds, the critical aspect of safety deserves equal attention. Rest assured, electric vehicles adhere to the same rigorous safety standards as traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, and often incorporate advanced safety features that make them exceptionally secure. In fact, EVs aren’t just meeting safety expectations; they’re frequently exceeding them, paving the way for a safer driving future.
To help you navigate the landscape of EV safety, we’ve compiled a list of the Safest Electric Cars available today, all recognized as Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for 2024. This list highlights EVs that have demonstrated superior crashworthiness and advanced safety technologies, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers. We’ve done the research, so you can easily find the electric vehicles that prioritize your safety.
The data presented in this article is based on the official 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick List, ensuring the most current and reliable safety information.
1. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Electrifying Safety in a Streamlined Sedan
Hyundai is at the forefront of electric mobility, offering a range of accessible and high-quality EVs. The Ioniq 6, a stylish and comfortable sedan, stands out not only for its design and efficiency but also for its exceptional safety. Awarded the Top Safety Pick+ designation for 2024, the Ioniq 6 is the sole electric vehicle in the midsize car category to achieve this highest safety accolade.
Hyundai’s Ioniq 6: A Benchmark for Electric Sedan Safety
Earning a Top Safety Pick+ award signifies outstanding safety performance across a spectrum of rigorous evaluations. The IIHS employs a rating system of Good, Acceptable, Marginal, and Poor to assess vehicle safety. The Hyundai Ioniq 6’s performance in these evaluations underscores its commitment to passenger protection.
Crashworthiness Ratings of Ioniq 6
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Acceptable |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Features of Ioniq 6
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Seat Belt and Child Restraint Safety in Ioniq 6
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Good |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
Beyond these impressive crash test results, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 comes standard with lane departure warning and prevention, along with blind spot monitoring. These advanced safety technologies contribute significantly to its Top Safety Pick+ status, making it one of the safest electric cars on the market.
2. Genesis Electrified G80: Luxury and Uncompromising Electric Safety
Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury marque, exemplifies sophistication and performance. The G80, their flagship luxury sedan, is also available in an all-electric variant, the Electrified G80. This model seamlessly blends opulence with cutting-edge technology and, crucially, exceptional safety.
Electrified Genesis G80: A Top Safety Pick+ Luxury EV
The Genesis Electrified G80 distinguishes itself as the only large luxury car to secure a Top Safety Pick+ award in 2024, even surpassing its ICE counterpart in safety accolades. This achievement highlights Genesis’ dedication to building vehicles that are both luxurious and incredibly safe.
Crashworthiness of Genesis Electrified G80
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Systems in Genesis Electrified G80
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
Seat Belt and Child Restraint Features of Genesis Electrified G80
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Acceptable |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Marginal |
(Data from IIHS)
The Genesis G80 Electric’s exceptional crashworthiness ratings indicate its robust construction and advanced safety engineering. Drivers and passengers can have confidence in the Electrified G80’s ability to protect them in various collision scenarios, making it a leading choice for safest electric cars in the luxury segment.
3. Hyundai Ioniq 5: Award-Winning Safety in an Electric SUV
Another Hyundai model on our list, the Ioniq 5 electric SUV, excels in both features and safety. Recognized as a Top Safety Pick, the Ioniq 5 is one of only two small electric SUVs to earn this distinction, solidifying Hyundai’s reputation for producing some of the safest electric cars.
Hyundai’s Commitment to EV Safety Evident in Ioniq 5
The presence of a third Hyundai Motor Group vehicle on this list underscores a clear trend: Hyundai and Genesis brands prioritize safety in their electric vehicle designs. The Ioniq 5’s IIHS ratings demonstrate this commitment to providing secure transportation for families and individuals.
Ioniq 5 Crashworthiness Performance
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Ioniq 5 Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Technologies
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Depending On Trim) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
Ioniq 5 Seat Belt and Child Restraint System
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Good |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
The Hyundai Ioniq 5’s consistent “Good” ratings in crashworthiness tests highlight its robust safety structure. Combined with its modern design and affordable price point, the Ioniq 5 is a compelling option for those seeking a safe and practical electric SUV.
4. Subaru Solterra: Subaru’s Electric SUV Upholds Safety Heritage
Subaru vehicles are synonymous with safety, consistently earning top marks across their model lineup. The Solterra, Subaru’s first all-electric SUV, continues this legacy, securing a Top Safety Pick designation.
Subaru’s Solterra: Carrying the Torch for Brand Safety into the EV Era
Alongside the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Solterra is one of only two small electric SUVs to achieve a Top Safety Pick rating. Interestingly, the closely related Toyota bZ4X did not receive the same recognition, suggesting Subaru’s unique safety engineering contributions to the Solterra.
Solterra Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Solterra Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Features
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Solterra Seat Belt and Child Restraint System
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Good |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
The Subaru Solterra’s near-perfect safety scores across the board are not surprising given Subaru’s long-standing commitment to vehicle safety. While it earned a Top Safety Pick rather than the “+” designation, its consistently “Good” ratings reinforce Subaru’s position as a leader in vehicle safety, now extending into the electric vehicle market.
5. Nissan Ariya: Nissan Enters the Safest Electric Car Arena
Nissan joins the ranks of safest electric car manufacturers with its electric SUV, the Ariya. The Ariya, Nissan’s second modern EV after the Leaf, offers family-friendly space and SUV practicality combined with impressive safety credentials.
Nissan Ariya: Proving its Safety Prowess in the Electric SUV Segment
While Nissan may not be traditionally recognized for leading safety ratings, the Ariya demonstrates a significant step forward in this area. Joining the Nissan Pathfinder as a Top Safety Pick, the Ariya marks Nissan’s commitment to safety in its electric vehicle offerings.
Ariya Crashworthiness Performance
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Ariya Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Technologies
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Ariya Seat Belt and Child Restraint System
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Acceptable |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good+ |
(Data from IIHS)
The Nissan Ariya stands out particularly for families due to its “Good+” rating for LATCH system ease of use, making car seat installation simpler and more secure. This, combined with its strong crash test performance, positions the Ariya as a safe and family-oriented electric SUV.
6. Audi Q4 E-Tron: Luxury Electric SUV with Audi’s Signature Safety
Audi enters the safest electric car conversation with its midsize electric SUV, the Q4 e-tron. While slightly smaller than the original e-tron, the Q4 e-tron maintains Audi’s reputation for safety and quality.
Audi Q4 E-Tron: Continuing Audi’s Legacy of Automotive Safety in the Electric Age
Audi has long been associated with safety innovation, and the Q4 e-tron upholds this tradition in the electric vehicle space. Sharing its platform with the Volkswagen ID.4, the Q4 e-tron benefits from a robust safety foundation.
Q4 E-Tron Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Q4 E-Tron Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Features
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Depending On Trim) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
The Audi Q4 e-tron’s consistently high crashworthiness scores demonstrate its strong structural integrity. Interestingly, headlight ratings vary by trim, with the base trim surprisingly earning a “Good” rating, highlighting that safety isn’t always tied to higher price points.
7. Genesis Electrified GV70: Sporty Electric SUV with Top-Tier Safety
Another Genesis model on our list, the Electrified GV70 electric SUV, combines sporty design with exceptional safety. Both the electric and ICE versions of the GV70 have achieved Top Safety Pick status, reinforcing Genesis’ commitment to vehicle safety across its lineup.
Hyundai Motor Group’s Safety Leadership Demonstrated by Genesis GV70 Electric
The Genesis Electrified GV70 marks the fourth Hyundai Motor Group EV on this list, further solidifying HMG’s leadership in automotive safety. HMG brands collectively hold the most Top Safety Picks of any automaker, showcasing their dedication to passenger protection.
GV70 Electric Crashworthiness Performance
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
GV70 Electric Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Technologies
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
GV70 Electric Seat Belt and Child Restraint System
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Genesis, along with Hyundai, is clearly setting a new standard for safety in electric vehicles. The Electrified GV70’s impressive safety ratings, combined with its luxurious features and sporty appeal, make it a standout choice for safety-conscious EV buyers.
8. Tesla Model Y: Tesla’s Electric SUV Achieves Top Safety Pick+
Tesla has sometimes faced scrutiny regarding safety and reliability. However, the Model Y midsize luxury SUV has earned a Top Safety Pick+ award, demonstrating Tesla’s capability to produce exceptionally safe vehicles.
Tesla Model Y: Safety Recognition for the Popular Electric SUV
The Model Y’s Top Safety Pick+ designation places it among the safest vehicles on the road, according to the IIHS. This achievement highlights Tesla’s focus on technology and innovation extending to vehicle safety.
Model Y Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Model Y Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Features
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Model Y Seat Belt and Child Restraint System
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
While the Model Y’s LATCH system ease of use received an “Acceptable” rating, its overall safety performance is undeniably strong. For families and individuals alike, the Tesla Model Y offers a compelling combination of electric performance, technology, and top-tier safety.
9. Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback: Stylish and Safe Electric SUV Coupe
The Q4 e-tron Sportback variant joins its standard Q4 e-tron sibling on the list of safest electric cars. This sportier, coupe-inspired version maintains the same high safety standards as the original model.
Audi Q4 E-Tron Sportback: Mirroring the Safety of its SUV Counterpart
Like the Q4 e-tron, the Sportback version’s safety ratings are based on the shared Volkswagen ID.4 platform. It achieves identical safety scores, ensuring that style doesn’t compromise safety.
Q4 E-Tron Sportback Crashworthiness
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Q4 E-Tron Sportback Crash Avoidance and Mitigation
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Depending On Trim) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
The Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback offers buyers a stylish electric SUV coupe without sacrificing safety. Its consistent “Good” ratings across crash tests mirror the standard Q4 e-tron, providing peace of mind for those drawn to its sporty design.
10. Tesla Model Y AWD: All-Wheel Drive Safety in the Tesla Lineup
The Model Y AWD is separately listed by the IIHS and earns a Top Safety Pick designation, although not the “+” of its rear-wheel drive counterpart. While all-wheel drive often enhances safety in various driving conditions, the IIHS ratings reveal a slight difference in this case.
Tesla Model Y AWD: Top Safety Pick, Emphasizing All-Weather Security
While typically AWD systems are associated with enhanced safety, the IIHS distinction between the Model Y RWD and AWD models highlights a specific difference in LATCH system rating, impacting the overall Top Safety Pick+ status for the AWD version.
Model Y AWD Crashworthiness
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Model Y AWD Crash Avoidance and Mitigation
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
The primary difference between the Model Y AWD and RWD in IIHS ratings is the LATCH system, which is not evaluated for Top Safety Pick status. While the AWD Model Y is still a Top Safety Pick, the lack of a “+” designation is attributed to this specific child restraint system rating. However, the added traction of AWD can contribute to enhanced real-world safety, especially in challenging weather conditions.
11. Audi Q8 E-Tron: Audi’s Largest Electric SUV Prioritizes Safety
The Q8 e-tron, Audi’s flagship electric SUV, offers both spaciousness and robust safety. This large, comfortable SUV is designed for families and everyday practicality, with safety performance to match its size and presence.
Audi Q8 E-Tron: Large Electric SUV with Big Safety Performance
The Q8 e-tron is one of a select few large electric SUVs on the IIHS Top Safety Pick list, with Audi dominating this category. This underscores Audi’s commitment to providing safe electric vehicles across different size segments.
Q8 E-Tron Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Q8 E-Tron Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Features
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Depending On Trim) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
The Audi Q8 e-tron’s strong crash test performance reinforces its position as a safe and substantial electric SUV. Similar to the Q4 e-tron, headlight ratings vary by trim, highlighting the importance of checking specific trim level safety features.
12. Rivian R1S: Rivian’s Electric SUV Adventure with a Focus on Safety
Rivian has quickly established itself as a leader in electric luxury SUVs, and the R1S embodies this blend of luxury, off-road capability, and safety. The R1S is designed for both adventure and everyday driving, with safety as a core element.
Rivian R1S: Blending Electric Adventure with Robust Safety Standards
Rivian stands out as the only non-Audi brand to earn a Top Safety Pick in the large SUV category, demonstrating its commitment to safety alongside luxury and performance.
R1S Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Marginal |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
R1S Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Features
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
R1S Seat Belt and Child Restraint System
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Seatbelt Reminders | Poor |
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
The Rivian R1S exhibits strong overall safety performance, though the “Poor” rating for seatbelt reminders and “Marginal” in the Moderate Overlap Front test indicate areas for potential improvement. Despite these points, the R1S remains a safe and highly capable electric SUV option.
13. Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback: The Sportback Version Maintains Top Safety
Audi again secures a double entry with the Q8 e-tron Sportback, earning a Top Safety Pick for the large SUV category alongside its standard SUV counterpart. The Sportback offers a sleeker design without compromising the safety performance of the Q8 e-tron.
Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback: Mirroring the Safety of the Standard Q8 E-Tron
The Q8 e-tron Sportback shares identical safety ratings with the standard Q8 e-tron, reinforcing Audi’s consistent safety engineering across its electric SUV lineup.
Q8 E-Tron Sportback Crashworthiness
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
Q8 E-Tron Sportback Crash Avoidance and Mitigation
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good/Acceptable (Depending On Trim) |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
The Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback provides the same robust safety as the standard Q8 e-tron, appealing to buyers who prioritize both style and safety in a large electric SUV. Again, headlight ratings vary by trim level, warranting careful consideration of specific configurations.
14. Rivian R1T: Rivian’s Electric Truck Leads in Safety
The R1T electric pickup truck from Rivian is a standout, combining rugged capability with impressive safety. The R1T is designed for both work and adventure, and it achieves Top Safety Pick status, leading the electric pickup segment in safety.
Rivian R1T: The Safest Electric Pickup Truck on the Market
The R1T is currently the only electric pickup truck to earn a spot on the 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick list, and it even surpasses its SUV sibling, the R1S, in certain safety metrics.
R1T Crashworthiness Ratings
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated Test) | Good |
| Side (Updated Test) | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
R1T Crash Avoidance and Mitigation Features
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Headlights | Good |
| Front Crash Prevention | Acceptable |
(Data from IIHS)
R1T Seat Belt and Child Restraint System
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| LATCH Ease Of Use | Good |
(Data from IIHS)
The Rivian R1T demonstrates that pickup trucks, often perceived as less safe than SUVs, can achieve top safety ratings in the electric vehicle era. Its strong crash test performance and overall safety accolades make the R1T a leader in the electric pickup segment and a safe choice for truck buyers.
Conclusion: Electric Vehicles and the Future of Automotive Safety
This list of Top Safety Pick electric vehicles clearly demonstrates that EVs are not only viable alternatives to traditional ICE vehicles but are also at the forefront of automotive safety innovation. With strong crashworthiness ratings and advanced safety technologies, these electric cars provide drivers and passengers with exceptional protection. Brands like Hyundai, Genesis, and Audi are consistently leading the way in EV safety, showcasing a commitment to building vehicles that prioritize occupant well-being. As the automotive industry moves towards an electric future, safety remains a crucial factor, and these safest electric cars are setting a high standard for years to come.
