The advanced safety features are not just technological marvels, but they play a crucial role in making EVs efficient, eco-friendly, reliable, and secure for drivers and passengers. As EV models evolve, evidence shows that they are safer than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the likelihood of injury in crashes involving EVs is lower for passengers than those in gasoline and diesel-fueled vehicles. The IIHS compared claims data from the electric and ICE versions of nine vehicles from model years 2011 to 2019, finding that injury claim rates for EV drivers and passengers were over 40% lower than for their ICE counterparts.
EV Magazine takes a look at the top 10 safety features that keep car occupants guarded:
10 | Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) is a safety feature that prevents collisions by detecting obstacles and automatically applying the brakes. This advanced technology enhances vehicle safety by intervening when drivers fail to react quickly, reducing the risk of accidents and protecting occupants and pedestrians.
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) are advanced safety features that help keep vehicles within their lanes. LKA provides corrective steering to maintain lane position, while LDW alerts drivers with warnings if they unintentionally drift out of their lane, enhancing overall driving safety.
9 | Automatic Collision Notification (ACN)
A safety feature that immediately alerts emergency services in the event of a crash. Upon detecting a collision, ACN transmits crucial information, such as location and impact severity, ensuring rapid response and assistance, which can significantly improve outcomes for vehicle occupants.
8 | Battery Management System (BMS)
A crucial component in electric vehicles is overseeing battery performance and safety. It monitors and manages the battery's state, including charging, discharging, temperature, and health, ensuring optimal efficiency, longevity, and protection against overcharging or overheating.
7 | Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
These are advanced safety features designed to enhance driver awareness. Blind Spot Monitoring alerts drivers to vehicles in adjacent lanes that may be out of view. At the same time, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert warns of approaching traffic from the sides when reversing, reducing the risk of collisions.
6 | Crash Protection and Reinforced Structure
Each is a crucial safety feature in modern vehicles. They use advanced materials and engineering techniques to fortify the vehicle's body, absorbing and distributing impact forces during a collision. This design significantly reduces injury risk to occupants by maintaining the integrity of the passenger compartment.
5 | High-Voltage Disconnect and Safety Interlocks
They are critical safety features in electric vehicles. They automatically cut off the high-voltage battery during a crash or fault, preventing electric shock and fires. The feature ensures that high-voltage components are only accessible when the system is safe, protecting occupants and emergency responders.
4 | Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates
These feature updates allow wireless delivery of software updates, firmware, or configuration changes to devices like smartphones, vehicles, and IoT gadgets. This technology ensures that devices stay current with the latest features, security patches, and performance enhancements without needing physical connections or manual intervention.
3 | Pedestrian Detection and Alert Systems
These features use sensors, cameras, and AI to identify pedestrians near vehicles and alert drivers to potential collisions. These systems enhance safety by providing real-time warnings and, in some cases, automatically applying brakes to prevent accidents, protecting pedestrians and drivers.
2 | Thermal Management System
It regulates the temperature of electronic devices, batteries, and machinery to prevent overheating and ensure optimal performance. By using components like heat sinks, fans, and liquid cooling, these systems maintain efficiency, extend lifespan, and enhance safety in various applications, from computers to electric vehicles.
1 | Traction Control and Stability Control Systems
These features enhance vehicle safety by preventing wheel spin and maintaining stability during acceleration and cornering. Traction control adjusts power to wheels, while stability control applies brakes to specific wheels, helping drivers maintain control in slippery or challenging conditions, reducing the risk of injury.
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