Safety Concerns Surrounding Tesla Cybertruck Raised by Expert

Since its debut as a concept vehicle at the beginning of this decade, the Tesla Cybertruck has generated significant controversy among industry experts. The large and boxy design has raised concerns about pedestrian safety in the event of a collision. Additionally, the Cybertruck’s weight and stainless steel body have raised concerns about its impact-absorbing capability compared to aluminum.

Tesla claims that the specially designed stainless steel body panels of the Cybertruck absorb impact forces, with reinforced ridges at the front and rear to evenly distribute and dissipate forces in the event of a collision. CEO Elon Musk expressed high confidence in the Cybertruck’s safety, stating that it surpasses other trucks in terms of passenger and pedestrian safety. He also assured that the pickup truck model underwent rigorous testing before its official release.

Nevertheless, safety experts continue to express concerns about the unique design of the Cybertruck and its overall safety. According to Reuters, experts have observed collision tests of the Cybertruck and believe more real-world data is needed to draw definitive conclusions about this “mobile fortress”.

Adrian Lund, former President of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), expressed concern: “The issue is that if the vehicle’s shell becomes very stiff by using thick stainless steel, it could pose a danger when someone hits their head on it.”

Samer Hamdar, Professor of Automotive Safety at George Washington University, also expressed concern about the crash absorption zone of Tesla’s electric pickup truck. However, he acknowledged that features such as “shock absorption mechanisms” could address these concerns.

In addition, Julia Griswold, Director of Berkeley’s Center for Traffic Safety Research at the University of California, believes that the Cybertruck’s heavy weight and incredible acceleration could be a constant concern for road users.

The European Transport Safety Council recently issued a statement expressing hope that Tesla will not introduce the Cybertruck to Europe. They added that “a vehicle of such large size, power, and weight could be a concern for pedestrians and cyclists in the event of a collision”.

In an interview with Top Gear, Tesla’s chief engineer admitted that European safety regulations regarding pedestrian safety could pose challenges in introducing the Cybertruck to the continent.

Moreover, many researchers believe that the potential risks associated with the Cybertruck not only affect cyclists and pedestrians but also other vehicles. David Friedman, former NHTSA Acting Administrator, emphasized this concern, stating that if the Cybertruck collides with another vehicle, the remaining vehicle will absorb the impact force and pose a danger to the occupants inside.

While comprehensive safety evaluations are necessary to provide accurate information on this matter, it is possible that potential Tesla Cybertruck customers prioritize the sensation of driving one of the most solid and powerful vehicles in its segment and pay less attention to its impact on the safety of other road participants.

Thai Son (Tuoitrethudo)

References: Carscoops