Recent crash tests by the University of Nebraska have revealed a significant safety concern: standard steel guardrails are struggling to withstand impacts from heavier electric vehicles (EVs), which can weigh up to 50% more than traditional gasoline-powered cars. In a test, a nearly 4-ton Rivian R1T electric pickup truck crashed through a steel guardrail with minimal deceleration, highlighting the need for updated roadside safety measures.
As Malta sees a rise in imported electric vehicles, there is increasing concern about whether current guardrails are equipped to handle these new challenges. Are our guardrails safe for EVs? This question is to confirm whether Maltese guardrails are sufficiently designed to manage the impact forces from heavier EVs, ensuring that the country’s road safety infrastructure remains effective and up to date.
