As Europe's preeminent crash - safety evaluation body, Euro NCAP carried out safety evaluations on more than 100 new vehicles last year. The findings clearly show that, in general, electric vehicles (EVs) outdo gasoline - powered cars in terms of safety.

The tests were comprehensive, encompassing three key areas: occupant protection, safeguarding of vulnerable road users, and active safety systems. A significant 62% of the models evaluated achieved a five - star rating. What's more, over 80% of these top - rated models were either fully electric or hybrid vehicles.

The Mercedes - Benz CLA stole the show, earning the title of Best Model of the Year. It scored an impressive 94% in adult occupant protection and 93% in protecting vulnerable road users.

Electric models like the Tesla Model 3/Y, smart #5, and Polestar 3 shone brightly, especially in child occupant protection. In multiple tests, they outperformed their gasoline - powered rivals.