The latest electric model from Ford earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The 2013 Ford Focus Electric, which was designed specifically with safety in mind, was awarded the top Overall Vehicle Score thanks to a variety of new features aimed at keeping occupants secure and avoiding the auto repair that can arise from a crash.
According to Torque News, the rating was the result of a comprehensive test as part of the New Car Assessment Program, which is run by the NHTSA and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
"As more people shop for electrified vehicles, the Focus Electric now offers both a top vehicle safety rating from the NHTSA and a faster-charging technology that allows it to fully recharge in three to four hours," said Steve Kenner, director of the Fort Automotive Safety Office.
One of the newest features that helped improve the safety features of the vehicle is a reconfigured driver's airbag, which uses a tether system to create a pocket of space that lessens the impact of the airbag on a driver's chest, protecting them in the event of a crash without causing bodily harm. Similar side airbags also have shoulder vents that reduce pressure on smaller occupants, like children.