Tesla’s all-electric Model S sedan rocked the auto industry when it was announced early this week that it scored a perfect 5 in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) safety crash tests.
That’s the highest rating the NHTSA awards. According to Tesla, only 1% of cars tested receive five stars.
In fact, according to some reports, the car actually broke the testing machine.
But apparently Tesla tooted their own horn a bit too much when they claimed they really scored 5.4 stars.
The NHTSA put out a statement that doesn’t mention Tesla by name, but is obviously aimed at their 5.4 claim. It reads:
The agency’s 5-Star Safety Ratings program is designed to provide consumers with information about the crash protection and rollover safety of new vehicles beyond what is required by Federal standards. One star is the lowest rating; five stars is the highest. More stars equal safer cars. NHTSA does not rate vehicles beyond 5 stars and does not rank or order vehicles within the star rating categories. In addition, the agency has guidelines in place for manufacturers and advertising agencies to follow to ensure that accurate and consistent information is conveyed to the public.
However, Tesla’s 5.4 claim remains on their site.
The controversy aside, the Model S’s safety rating is impressive. The car scored not only 5 overall, but 5 in every subcategory of the test.
Tesla has been selling the Model S in the US since the beginning of last summer. It’s price is not for the faint of heart. The base model starts at about $70,000. According to Wikipedia, Tesla sold approximately 12,700 in the US between June of 2012 to June 2013.
Are you jonesing for a Model S?
Let us know what you think the car in the comments section below!
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