8 Electric Vehicles Scored Top Safety Pick+ Rating 2022

Last week the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) announced its Top Safety Pick awards for 2022. Among the 65 prizewinners, spanning in 12 size categories, 8 electric vehicles earned Top Safety Pick+ recognition. These models, as it happens, showcase some of the best that electric production has to offer right now. Regrettably though, one of our favorite electric models, the Ford Mustang Mach-e, missed out on top safety distinction due to a Marginal headlight rating.

To receive a Top Safety Pick+ award, a vehicle must be presented with “Good” scores in all IIHS crash-test categories. In addition, a vehicle must earn an “Advanced” or “Superior” rating for front-crash prevention tech in both car-to-car and car-to-pedestrian scenarios. Nowadays, a major determinant for a Top Safety Pick+ versus Top Safety Pick award comes down to headlight quality. A “Good” or “Acceptable” headlight score is now a requisite. Which means, if automakers want to advance to a higher rating, they must upgrade to top-of-the-line headlamps.

8 electric vehicles with top safety in 2022

The IIHS safety awards are a real opportunity for automakers to stand out amongst the rest. Though some auto enthusiasts criticize these awards for lack of representation, the vehicles that do get tested endure a series of crucial tests that deliver important safety data. Consumers can then utilize these ratings to determine which make or model is up to standard. Although it might as well be said, you can’t go wrong with any of the 8 electric vehicles on the Top Safety Pick+ list this year.

Here are the top safety earners for the 2022 model year: 

1. Audi E-Tron
2. Audi E-Tron Sportback
3. Hyundai Nexo
4. Tesla Model 3
5. Tesla Model Y
6. Volkswagen ID.4
7. Volvo XC40 Recharge
8. Volvo C40 Recharge

New to the list, the 2022 Hyundai Nexo makes an impactful statement as the world’s first hydrogen-powered SUV. Firstly, it offers an EPA-est. range of 380 miles and boosts zero emissions. This makes it an attractive option for both commuters and busy families looking to make the switch to electric. With two trim options, Blue and Limited, drivers can enjoy eco-friendly interior finishes, like bio-based leatherette seating, and a power tilt-and-side wide sunroof for optimal viewing.

Expect more EVs in the future

Overall, the 65 models that achieved top safety ratings in 2022 have impressed us. In the group of automakers, Hyundai scored the biggest recognition within all size categories. Volkswagen and Volvo followed close behind. Even more so, you might have noticed the number of models, including electric vehicles, has increased immensely in recent years.

We can contribute that to advanced driver assist systems and improved headlight quality. Now that the government has officially approved adaptive driving beam headlights, we’re sure these awards will only get more critical of headlight quality in the years to come.