10 Electric Vehicles With Five-Star Safety Ratings

Overcoming initial skepticism, electric vehicles have emerged as some of the safest options on the road, dispelling concerns about fire hazards often exaggerated in early discussions. In reality, several EV models rank among the safest cars globally, benefitting from cutting-edge automotive technology and a wealth of standard safety features coupled with advanced driver assistance systems.

Our comprehensive evaluation, combined with assessments from the NHTSA, highlights the top contenders for safety among electric cars in the U.S. for 2024. These findings underline the evolution of EVs beyond mere environmental friendliness, positioning them as frontrunners in ensuring occupant protection and road safety.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the NHTSA. The Models below have been ranked in no particular order.

1 2024 Nissan Leaf

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The Nissan Leaf, a pioneering force in the electric vehicle market since 2010, remains an excellent entry-level EV choice. With a second generation introduced in 2017, the Leaf offers notable improvements in power and range, featuring a 147-horsepower motor and a 40-kWh battery providing up to 151 miles of driving range. Its design is both aerodynamic and futuristic, while maintaining a competitive price point, making it a practical and cost-effective option for eco-conscious drivers.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

The Nissan Leaf excels in safety, earning a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It achieved a perfect 5-star rating in the side crash test, underscoring its robust protection capabilities. The Leaf also scored 4 stars in both the frontal crash and rollover tests, reflecting its solid performance in various crash scenarios. These ratings highlight the Leaf’s commitment to ensuring driver and passenger safety, making it a reliable choice in the EV segment.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 0
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 0

2 2024 Audi Q4 e-tron

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The 2024 Audi Q4 e-tron is an entry-level, all-electric mid-size SUV that combines Audi’s luxury and engineering prowess with eco-friendly technology. Available in multiple trims, it offers both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. The RWD version features a single motor with 201 horsepower, while the AWD version has a dual-motor setup delivering 295 horsepower.

The Q4 e-tron boasts a maximum range of 265 miles and can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 36 minutes using 150 kW DC fast charging. The interior is well-appointed with high-tech amenities, including an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an augmented reality head-up display.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

The Audi Q4 e-tron has received commendable safety ratings, underscoring its reliability and robust build quality. The NHTSA awarded it an overall 5-star rating, with a 4-star rating in the frontal crash category and a perfect 5-star rating in the side crash category. The vehicle also earned a 4-star rating for rollover resistance.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 0
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 1 regarding placement of warning stickers on sun visors

3 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron is Audi’s flagship all-electric SUV, representing a significant evolution from its predecessors with enhanced luxury and performance features. Powered by dual electric motors generating a combined 402 horsepower, this SUV accelerates from 0 to 60 MPH in just 5.4 seconds.

It offers a range of up to 300 miles on a single charge and can recharge from 10% to 80% in a mere 31 minutes at DC Fast-Charging stations. Inside, the Q8 e-tron boasts a tech-rich environment with three digital screens forming Audi’s Virtual Cockpit.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron excels in safety, having earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It received a 4-star rating in the frontal crash test but achieved perfect 5-star ratings in both side crash and rollover tests. Additionally, it was recognized with the 2023 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Award, showcasing its robust safety and reliability features.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 0
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 0

4 2024 Volkswagen ID.4

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The Volkswagen ID.4 is Volkswagen’s first fully-electric compact crossover SUV, introduced in the U.S. market in 2021. Built on Volkswagen’s Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform, the latest model boasts multiple trim levels, enhanced technical features, and improved DC fast-charging capabilities.

The ID.4 offers a choice between two battery capacities, 62 kWh and 82 kWh, with ranges up to 275 miles. Competing with models like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, the ID.4 stands out for its modern design, intelligent interior, and competitive pricing.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 has achieved impressive safety ratings, reinforcing its reputation as a secure electric SUV. It received the highest score of 5 out of 5 stars in both frontal and side crash tests, and a solid 4 out of 5 stars for rollover resistance. These scores contribute to its overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The ID.4 is equipped with advanced safety features, including Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE system, which incorporates various driver assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 1 regarding a non-fire-retardant sunshade
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 0

5 2024 Nissan Ariya

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The Nissan Ariya, introduced as part of Nissan’s electrification strategy, marks the company’s first foray into battery-electric SUVs. Launched in 2020 and available since 2021, the Ariya offers a blend of futuristic design and advanced technology across nine different trims.

Built on the CMF-EV platform, it features a low center of gravity for improved handling and a spacious, flat-floored interior. With power options ranging from 238 to 389 horsepower and a maximum range of 304 miles, the Ariya combines performance with practicality. Additionally, its competitive pricing and extensive customization options make it a promising contender in the electric SUV market.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

In terms of safety, the Nissan Ariya has received commendable ratings from the NHTSA. It boasts an overall safety rating of 5 stars, with perfect scores in side crash tests and solid 4-star ratings in both frontal crash and rollover evaluations. These results reflect the Ariya’s robust safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, and advanced semi-autonomous driving capabilities available in higher trims.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 0
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 0

6 2024 Tesla Model Y

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The Tesla Model Y, a compact electric SUV, shares its design roots with the Tesla Model 3, and it has rapidly become one of the world’s most popular crossovers. Known for its versatility, the Model Y offers performance, range, and technology, catering to a broad audience with its three trims: Rear-Wheel Drive, Long Range, and Performance.

Priced competitively, it can accommodate up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for families. The Model Y is also renowned for its sleek, minimalist design and cutting-edge features, including a large touchscreen and over-the-air software updates.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

The Tesla Model Y has received outstanding safety ratings, achieving a perfect score of five stars in all categories from the NHTSA. This includes top marks in frontal crash, side crash, and rollover tests. The Model Y has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, the highest honor from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, thanks to its exceptional crashworthiness and advanced driver-assistance systems, such as automatic emergency braking and active blind-spot detection.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 1 recall related to the incorrect font size on warning lights
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 4 related to fuel system, forward collision avoidance, lock components, and vehicle speed control

7 2024 Kia EV6

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The 2024 Kia EV6 is an all-electric SUV that has quickly become a standout in the electric vehicle market since its debut in 2022. Known for its impressive range of up to 310 miles on a single charge and a powerful performance spectrum ranging from 167 to 576 horsepower, the EV6 caters to a variety of needs and preferences.

The EV6 is available in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the GT trim delivering a notable 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.4 seconds. The interior is equipped with modern technology, including a 12.0-inch digital dashboard and infotainment system, and offers ample space and comfort, making it a practical choice for both daily commuting and longer journeys.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

In terms of safety, the 2024 Kia EV6 has received top marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), earning a perfect 5-star rating across all categories, including frontal crash, side crash, and rollover tests. This exemplary safety performance is complemented by a suite of advanced driver assistance features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision avoidance, and lane-keeping assist. The IIHS has previously awarded the EV6 its highest safety accolade, the Top Safety Pick+.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 1 related to loss of drive power from a damaged charging unit
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 3 related to electrical system (two), and powertrain

8 2024 Toyota bZ4X

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The Toyota bZ4X is Toyota’s first fully electric compact crossover, designed specifically for the American market. It offers two trims with either a front-wheel-drive single motor producing 201 horsepower or an all-wheel-drive dual-motor setup generating 214 horsepower. This EV crossover boasts a range of 222 to 252 miles, depending on the configuration. With features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone charging, and Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 suite, the bZ4X combines practicality with modern technology and safety.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

Regarding safety, the Toyota bZ4X has received high marks from the NHTSA, earning a 5-star overall rating. It achieved perfect scores in both frontal and side crash tests, while its rollover rating stands at 4 out of 5 stars. These results underscore Toyota’s commitment to safety in its vehicles. Additionally, the bZ4X was awarded the Top Safety Pick+ designation by the IIHS, further affirming its robust safety credentials.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 0
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 0

9 2024 Lexus RZ

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The Lexus RZ marks Lexus’ entry into the all-electric SUV market, embodying the luxury brand’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. As Lexus’ first electric SUV, the RZ boasts a sleek exterior design reminiscent of its high-end counterparts and a luxurious interior loaded with features.

Powered by a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup, the RZ delivers a total output of 308 horsepower and 321 pound-feet of torque, offering brisk acceleration and smooth performance. Built on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, the RZ shares its electric architecture with the Toyota bZ4X and the Subaru Solterra, ensuring reliability and efficiency. With its combination of style, comfort, and electric performance, the Lexus RZ sets a new standard for luxury electric SUVs.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

In terms of safety ratings, the Lexus RZ earns top marks across the board, demonstrating its commitment to passenger safety. With a perfect 5/5 rating in both frontal and side crash tests, as well as a commendable 4/5 rating in rollover tests, the RZ proves its capability to protect occupants in various collision scenarios. These outstanding safety ratings reflect Lexus’ dedication to engineering vehicles that prioritize occupant protection and overall safety, reassuring drivers and passengers alike that they are well-protected in the event of an accident.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 0
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 0

10 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning

Overall NHTSA Safety Rating: 5/5

The Ford F-150 Lightning epitomizes Ford’s entry into the electric pickup truck segment, blending utility, comfort, and off-road capabilities with electric performance. As an electrified iteration of the iconic F-Series, the Lightning maintains the rugged appeal of its predecessors while introducing modern features and technology. With options for standard-range and extended-range battery configurations, the Lightning delivers impressive power, boasting up to 580 horsepower and 775 pound-feet of torque.

Its towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds and payload capacity of 2,235 pounds ensure practicality and versatility for a wide range of tasks. Moreover, the Lightning offers a spacious interior, advanced connectivity, and innovative features like the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, making it a formidable contender in the electric pickup truck market.

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

In terms of safety, the Ford F-150 Lightning earns top marks, reflecting its commitment to occupant protection and overall safety. With a stellar 5/5 rating in side crash tests and an impressive 4/5 rating in both frontal crash and rollover tests, the Lightning demonstrates its capability to withstand various collision scenarios while ensuring the safety of its occupants. These exceptional safety ratings underscore Ford’s dedication to engineering vehicles that prioritize occupant protection, instilling confidence in drivers and passengers alike.

• Recalls (NHTSA): 0
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 0