Hybrid cars: safer for passengers, less for pedestrians

According to the latest research, hybrid cars are more safe for drivers and passengers in an accident than models of the same petrol version.

Are hybrids safer?

According to the Road Loss Data Institute, there are 25% less chance of injury in a collision with a hybrid vehicle than in the classic version of the same car. v the weight hybrid models seem to be the main reason for this phenomenon. In fact, hybrids typically weigh about 10% more than standard gasoline models. For example, the difference in weight between the Accord Hybrid and the classic petrol Accord is about 250 kg. In a collision, people on board are less prone to impact. In hybrid models, the battery, which takes up most of the trunk space of the car, is the reason for such a large difference in weight.

Pedestrians are still in danger

While this study by the Road Loss Data Institute may reassure hybrid drivers and passengers, pedestrians, on the other hand, should always be careful. Indeed, it is only in electric mode that the hybrid versions endanger those who cross the road without caution. For this reason, the US Congress required the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrationequip hybrid and electric models with sound systems for warning pedestriansand that's for three years. Note that the current coverage of hybrid vehicles is slightly higher than that of gasoline vehicles. However, the difference can be compensated for by fuel savings.