Applicability of Safety Standards to Electric and Hybrid-Vehicles

A study was conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to determine the applicability of Federal motor vehicle safety standards to electric and hybrid vehicles. Addressed in the study were vehicles to be included in the demonstration fleets called for in Public Law 94-413 and vehicles anticipated for future consumer use. Descriptions are given of existing and future electric and hybrid vehicles,and results of safety tests are reported. It was concluded that Federal safety standards, with few exceptions, should be applicable to electric and hybrid vehicles, with the possible exception of special purpose, limited performance and use vehicles.