Huh. Mitsubishi’s formerly known as i-MiEV now “i” electric vehicle recently underwent some crash testing across the pond under the auspices of the European NCAP.
The “i” managed to score a four-star overall rating from the Euro NCAP testing. The EV earned fair marks for adult and child occupant protection, although its marks for pedestrian safety suffer as a part of a result of an extremely short (almost nonexistent) hood.
Although the passenger structure appears to remain fairly intact after a front impact test at 40 mph (slightly higher than what the NHTSA requires), Euro NCAP does note the EV’s footwell was heavily distorted following the collision. The i did lose some marks during side impact testing — although side curtain airbags helped the car attain marginal torso protection ratings, the driver’s door did open slightly during a 29-mph-impact. It was noted however, that no problems were experienced with the high-voltage driveline during testing, and that the battery remained properly isolated from the body and wasn’t damaged during the collisions.
What does this mean for the U.S.-spec “i”? That remains to be seen, as the car — modified slightly for U.S. consumption — has yet to be tested by the NHTSA or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Until then, you can pore over the Euro NCAP scores if you’d like, or — better yet — grab a tub of popcorn and watch the “i” being put through its paces.
via Euro NCAP courtesy of Automobile Magazine Staff
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