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Safest electric and executive car: Mercedes EQS

The Mercedes EQS is a double achiever - it's not only Euro NCAP's safest electric car but its the safest executive car, too.

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12 Jan 2022

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The Mercedes EQS has not only had to compete with the might of the Tesla Model S during its relatively short time within the growing electric executive car market, but it has also been expected to live up to the very high standards set by its petrol-powered flagship sister model, the S-Class.

Euro NCAP

Fortunately for Mercedes, they have certainly done an excellent job in proving the EQS’s ability when it comes to safety. It was not only ranked as Euro NCAP’s safest electric car of 2021, but it was also the safest executive car, too.

Adult occupant safety scored a whopping 96% thanks to the structural protection of the passenger compartment, as well as a multitude of airbags and the multi-collision braking system.

New Mercedes EQS 2021 review

Child occupant safety also scored an impressive 91%. The safety assist score was notably lower at just 80%, this was partly due to some of the more advanced safety features only being available as options. Vulnerable-road-user safety scored a respectable 76%, with the EQS’s ‘Active Bonnet’ proving to be particularly effective at protecting a struck pedestrian.

Safest hybrid and electric cars - previous winners

2020: No winner
2019: Tesla Model 3
2018: Lexus ES
2017: Subaru Impreza/XV
2016: Hyundai Ioniq
2015: Infiniti Q30
2014: Nissan Qashqai
2013: Qoros 3 Sedan
2012: Volvo V40
2011: Ford Focus
2010: Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Safest executive car - previous winners

2020: No winner
2019: No winner
2018: No winner
2017: Volkswagen Arteon
2016: no winner
2015: no winner
2014: no winner
2013: Maserati Ghibli
2012: No winner
2011: No winner
2010: BMW 5 Series

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Shane Wilkinson

Shane is responsible for looking after the day-to-day running of the Auto Express website and social media channels. Prior to joining Auto Express in 2021, he worked as a radio producer and presenter for outlets such as the BBC.