The 2025 safety rankings from Euro NCAP show a dramatic shift in the automotive world. Electric cars are no longer just a choice for the eco conscious, they are setting new records for passenger protection, crash performance, and child safety. Here are the standout models that prove the safest cars on the road are now electric.
The all new electric Mercedes CLA dominates the global safety charts in 2025. According to Euro NCAP, it scored a nearly perfect 94 percent for adult occupant protection and 93 percent for protecting vulnerable road users. Its advanced active hood and automatic emergency braking system have set new standards in its segment, earning it the titles of best overall performer and best small family car. The electric CLA’s reinforced structure and smart crumple zones show that electric platforms give automakers new flexibility in designing for crash safety. This achievement makes the Mercedes CLA a prime pick for those seeking ultimate peace of mind for daily commutes or family travel.
Tesla is never far from the top of the safety rankings, and in 2025 the refreshed Model 3 (Highland) leads its class with a remarkable 93 percent score for child occupant safety. The Model Y is called the gold standard among compact sport utility vehicles, achieving a 92 percent score in electronic driver assistance systems. This puts Tesla at the forefront for families who want the latest digital safety tech along with high marks in crash protection. Tesla’s use of centrally mounted batteries and a flat underbody helps create strong crumple zones and a lower center of gravity, further reducing rollover risk and improving overall safety.
Several new electric entries shook up the rankings this year. The Smart #5 electric crossover took the crown for large SUVs, earning 93 percent for child safety and outscoring some well established names. The Polestar 3 became the safest executive car with a 90 percent adult protection score and advanced driver assistance features. Even in the city car segment, the electric Mini Cooper E outperformed its petrol sibling, reaching 89 percent in adult safety thanks to its reinforced body.
Experts note that the lack of a bulky front engine and the placement of batteries low in the chassis allow designers to create more efficient crumple zones and a lower center of gravity, which helps reduce the risk of rollovers. These advances are quickly making electric vehicles not just greener, but safer than ever before. The 2025 Euro NCAP results settle the debate about the strength of electric vehicles, confirming that the path to an electric future is also the safest route in automotive history.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.