In the penultimate round of Euro NCAP testing for 2021, a new set of five cars faced the world’s most exacting crash tests evaluations. The Mustang Mach-E, Ford’s first all-electric family SUV, was the star performer achieving a five-star rating. 

The Mach-E is one of the first few cars to have Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) not only in the front of the vehicle to protect against forward collisions, but also at the rear of the vehicle. ‘Reverse AEB’ can help to avoid and mitigate reversing accidents into both pedestrians and other vehicles, although this feature would need to be switched on manually by the driver before use.

Matthew Avery, chief strategic research officer, Thatcham Research commented, “It is positive to see a mainstream brand like Ford contributing to the EV safety narrative, proving that EVs are just as safe as ICE vehicles and a good choice of family car. In fact, a large proportion of the new vehicles tested this year have been dedicated EVs and the majority have achieved five-stars, which is to the credit of all EV carmakers.” He added, “This well-rated EV is a good, safe choice for families and represents a great start for Ford in paving the way for its future Mustang EV range.”

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 also featured in this latest round of testing and proved to be another example of a high performing all-electric vehicle. It is the first to use the brand’s new EV-dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform, upon which all Hyundai and Kia vehicles will be built. The Ioniq 5 secured a five-star rating, performing well in all areas of testing with strong Adult and Child Occupant Protection scores of 88% and 86% respectively, and includes important features like a centre airbag for occupant-to-occupant protection in lateral impacts. The Ioniq 5’s Safety Assist features also scored highly with good AEB and driver monitoring systems.

The Hyundai Bayon achieved four-stars in Euro NCAP testing, while the latest Hyundai Tucson, also received five-stars. The Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid also scored five-stars and was praised for providing an affordable level of impressive safety.