As the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) gains momentum, our unwavering commitment to safety grows in parallel. Roadway departures, responsible for approximately one-half of all roadway fatalities, demand our attention. But what happens when EVs encounter traditional guardrails?
Guardrails have undergone rigorous testing over the years, yet the technology needs to evolve as the vehicle fleet changes. Recently, Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) and industry leaders convened for a groundbreaking crash test. In this test, our researchers subjected a Tesla Model 3 to a 62-mph impact at a 25-degree angle with a thrie beam guardrail system—the same conditions used for MASH crash testing. The impact ruptured the thrie beam rail and allowed the test vehicle to penetrate through the barrier. This result shows more research is needed to help us better understand and prepare for the growth of more EVs on our roadways.
As we navigate this dynamic landscape, TTI’s research positions Texas at the forefront of safety innovation.
