Model S crash worthiness

[Nik]

(Perhaps Alpha testing is just preliminary, and doesn't go towards to "public" rating until they test cars closer to production intent?)

Aren't the Alpha tests about validating the computer simulations of crash performance?

 

[TEG]

Tesla showing strong growth, huge losses, amid best quarter in their history - National Green Transportation | Examiner.com

...Their goal is for the Model S to be the safest car in the world. The Alpha test cars almost achieved a 5 star crash rating in all categories. They're currently working on tightening production tolerances and expect to achieve a 5 star rating...

 

[Lloyd]

So according to this video, in order to achieve a 5 star rating the following systems will need to be in place:
1. Electronic Stability control
2. Forward Collision Warning
3. Lane Departure warning.

We can then assume that these will be standard features on the model S?

 

[Lloyd]

Hmm..... Perhaps with their really low Center of Gravity they may get a pass and still achieve the rating?? ESC made a huge difference on SUV's and other large vehicles. The effect may be minimal on the Model S.

 

[Norbert]

The text appears to say that Model S not only has ESC as required, but also additional features not required, including TCS.

 

[Norbert]

The text appears to say that Model S not only has ESC as required, but also additional features not required, including TCS.

Just wanted to add a quote of the part I'm referring to:

Tesla has developed an ESC system for the upcoming Model S, which is scheduled to be introduced in the United States in 2012. Tesla also states that it has included a number of features not mandated by the FMVSSs, including the TCS system discussed earlier.

 

[TEG]

I think here ( http://youtu.be/kREO1VHPWHE?t=3m13s ) he is saying that it is intended to be "the safest car in the world" and "the only car that gets a 5-star rating in every category."

 

[vfx]

I think here ( http://youtu.be/kREO1VHPWHE?t=3m13s ) he is saying that it is intended to be "the safest car in the world" and "the only car that gets a 5-star rating in every category."

That has been said before. I use that in conversation with people concerned about safety. It always gives pause.

 

[TEG]

I wasn't in a good position (Beta car in the way!) but they were showing crash test video on the screen during the "how many people can fit in an S" demo today:

 

[mt2]

Wow, much better sound than the other videos. Seems we get good video with crappy sound, or good sound with no view!

 

[TEG]

There was a whole mini-TV studio behind the screen. I beta Tesla has good quality video and audio of these presentations... If they ever want to use them for something.

 

[tdelta1000]

Nice crash video. I think that the Model S may get 5 stars on the frontal crash.

 

[TEG]

Well it seems that they are saying they want 5 stars in every category... "Safest car on the road".
Lets hope they are right and the final tests prove that.

Doug got a less obstructed video of the screen here:

 

[zdre]

Wow, the front of the car gets folded into nothing... The absence of an ICE allows the body to absorb much more energy and reduce the impact on the passengers.

 

[gmontem]

Wow, the front of the car gets folded into nothing... The absence of an ICE allows the body to absorb much more energy and reduce the impact on the passengers.

I asked one of the reps in the tent after the test ride what happens to the cargo inside the frunk during an impact like in the video. I was reassured none of the items can get pushed into the passengers and driver and harm them. There was that one exception, being swords in the frunk.

 

[Mycroft]

But what happens to the guy who's folded into the frunk? :biggrin:

 

[vfx]

What about the rear end. Do the kids legs pancake?

 

[tdelta1000]

After looking at the crash video. Several times...I noticed that their seem to be no cabin deformation. It would be nice if Tesla shared some photos after the crash test. I think the Model S will scrose well if the frontal testing.

 

[Doug_G]

What about the rear end. Do the kids legs pancake?

Do they drive the car backwards into a brick wall at 60 mph? Perhaps the rear crash test isn't quite as violent.

 

[vfx]

Do they drive the car backwards into a brick wall at 60 mph? Perhaps the rear crash test isn't quite as violent.

Martin showed the Roadster rear ending crash. A truck drives into it lifting the car up. Pretty violent.