During initial tests under NCAP conditions, the vehicle demonstrated no tendency to burn. Therefore, for subsequent tests the speed was increased markedly. With 75 km/h for the side impact and 84 km/h for the frontal crash, the researchers moved into a speed range in which despite every possible safety feature, the occupants would have virtually no chance of survival.
Nonetheless, the high-voltage technology remained unimpressed. Although the battery pack suffered massive damage, especially due to the lateral impact, it did not catch fire. The temperature sensors installed in the vehicle showed no increase in heat and the safety shutdown of the high-voltage drive functioned perfectly. However, as the scientists stress, in order to avoid uncertainties it is important that the fire services study the new technology prior to any possible emergency.
