The European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) has become the gold standard for rating vehicle safety. In 2025, several new EV models from emerging brands are shaking up the market by delivering top-tier protection for drivers, passengers, and vulnerable road users. This evolution highlights how innovation in electric mobility extends well beyond sustainability to encompass comprehensive safety solutions.
Togg’s Impact: Combining Turkish Engineering with European Design
Togg, Turkey’s newest car manufacturer established in 2018, has quickly gained international recognition by earning five-star Euro NCAP ratings for its first two electric models, the T10F family saloon and the T10X SUV. Both cars excelled in adult occupant protection, scoring above 94%, and demonstrated commendable child occupant and pedestrian safety. Designed by renowned firms including Pininfarina, Togg leverages a blend of Turkish craftsmanship and European design excellence. The company’s ambition extends beyond Turkey, additionally aiming to export one million EVs across Europe by 2030. Expand its lineup to five models, symbolizing a major new player accelerating the EV safety landscape.
Firefly: Affordable EV Safety Leadership from China
Firefly, a new brand launched by the Chinese group NIO, underscores that high safety standards are achievable in compact, budget-friendly electric cars. Its debut model, the Firefly hatchback, secured a remarkable 96% adult occupant protection rating. This is highest among all tested vehicles since early 2024. Positioned as a competitor to small EVs like the Mini Cooper E, Firefly’s outstanding safety demonstrates the power of focused research, innovation, and engineering in democratizing EV safety. This trend benefits consumers by making reliable protection accessible without compromising affordability or style.
Broader Euro NCAP Trends in 2025: Established and Emerging Brands
Beyond Togg and Firefly, Euro NCAP tested 16 new models in 2025, with most earning five-star ratings. Established brand SUVs—such as the Audi Q4 e-tron, Hyundai IONIQ 9, and MINI Aceman—and smaller favorites like the MINI Cooper performed robustly in crash tests and driver assistance evaluations. The presence of five Chinese manufacturers showed China’s rise as a competitive force in global EV safety. Some notable exceptions like BMW and Suzuki scored four stars, mainly due to weaker protection in specific crash scenarios. This underscores the ongoing need for improvement even in established lineups.
Why These Safety Milestones Matter for EV Adoption
High Euro NCAP ratings validate manufacturers’ commitment to safety and inspire consumer confidence significant for EV adoption growth. With urban mobility trends emphasizing pedestrian and cyclist safety, these new EVs include advanced driver assistance systems and enhanced passive safety features. Their success challenges old notions that bigger vehicles are inherently safer and illustrates how cutting-edge technology is reshaping car safety for a greener, smarter future.
Safer Roads Ahead with Next-Generation EVs
The breakthroughs by Togg and Firefly reflect a pivotal moment in automotive safety and electric mobility. These brands prove newcomers can compete at the highest level, pushing industry standards upward. As design ingenuity, safety innovations, and technology integration advance, drivers will enjoy vehicles that protect life and the environment simultaneously. Euro NCAP’s rigorous testing continues to ensure the safest electric vehicles reach the road, empowering consumers and fostering a safer, more sustainable transport ecosystem worldwide.
