Size and Safety: A Win for Electric Vehicles
LEUVEN, BELGIUM – The latest Euro NCAP safety assessments highlight an important truth: when it comes to vehicle safety, size is not the decisive factor. Independent tests have shown recently released electric models, including the compact MINI Cooper Electric and the larger Audi A6 e-tron, provide exceptional protection for those inside and other individuals on the road.
Both the MINI Cooper E and the Audi A6 e-tron earned the coveted five-star rating from Euro NCAP, an outcome that underscores the fact that consumers do not have to compromise on safety based on vehicle size or price point.
“The new MINI Cooper E shows how you could own a fun-to-drive, small electric car without compromising on safety,” explained Aled Williams, Programme Director at Euro NCAP. “As for Audi’s new A6 e-tron, we were particularly impressed by how well this large family car protected both adults and children in an impact.”
MINI Cooper E: Proof that Small Can Be Safe
Nearly 25 years after BMW successfully revitalized the MINI brand, Euro NCAP has validated that the new MINI Cooper E is big on safety. The original MINI, which debuted in 1959, captured the charm and driving dynamics which made it a hit with drivers. The newest model maintains the MINI spirit while utilizing 21st-century engineering features, including advanced safety systems.
Results from the independent organization’s crash tests of the 2002 MINI One earned a commendable four-star rating for adult occupant protection, and the safety of each subsequent generation has improved. The 2025 MINI Cooper E continues this tradition of prioritizing safety, enhancing protection for adults, children, and vulnerable road users, and achieving high scores in active safety technologies to help prevent accidents. The new electric model was awarded a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating achieving impressive protection scores.
The new MINI Cooper E earned 89% for adult protection, 85% for child protection, 77% for pedestrian protection, and 79% for its safety assist systems. In contrast to the 2001 model, the latest version includes multiple airbags, including those that protect the chest and pelvis in a side impact. There is also an airbag between the front seats to prevent occupant impact. Active systems include autonomous emergency braking, speed limit assistance, lane-changing systems, and sensors that can detect cyclists, all aiding in accident prevention.
These results demonstrate ongoing advancements in vehicle safety, regardless of vehicle size. After more than two decades of reinvention, the MINI remains a compact and fun vehicle without sacrificing the safety of its occupants or those around it.
Audi A6 e-tron: Outstanding Child Protection
The 2025 Audi A6 e-tron demonstrates that the stylish electric family car offers outstanding protection for both adults and children. In accident scenarios, the car earned 92% for adult occupant protection and 91% for child occupant protection, proving its commitment to safety. Paired with its active driver aids, the A6 e-tron achieves a five-star Euro NCAP rating, signaling a high safety standard for families.
Williams highlighted, “We were impressed by the Audi A6 e-tron and the protection it afforded children as well as adults. The new model scored maximum points in our Child Occupant test, which offers peace of mind to parents who are searching for an electric family car that is as safe as it is stylish.”
