Electric Cars

In a recent series of assessments by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), both the 2025 Tesla Cybertruck and the updated 2025 Model 3 did not secure the top-tier safety accolades. Despite receiving generally favorable \"good\" ratings in overall crash performance, specific areas of concern prevented these highly anticipated electric vehicles from earning the coveted \"top safety pick\" designation. This development is particularly noteworthy given Tesla's historical reputation for excelling in various independent safety evaluations.

IIHS Reveals Safety Shortcomings in New Tesla Models

On September 16, 2025, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) unveiled the results of its latest crash tests, which included two prominent Tesla vehicles: the 2025 Cybertruck and the 2025 Model 3. While both models demonstrated commendable safety in most aspects, a few critical points led to them missing the highest safety distinctions. For the rugged Cybertruck, the primary drawback identified was the performance of its headlights, which were rated \"poor\" due to excessive glare from the low beams. The IIHS also noted that their crash test findings for the Cybertruck are specifically applicable to units manufactured from April 2025 onwards, following modifications made by Tesla to the vehicle's front underbody structure. Meanwhile, the sleeker Model 3 faced scrutiny regarding the safety of its rear passengers. Data from crash test dummies indicated an elevated risk of chest injuries for occupants in the rear, attributed to high seatbelt forces during impact. This assessment highlights a potential area for improvement in the Model 3's passenger restraint system, despite otherwise solid crash performance. This comes after reports earlier in the year that Tesla's lead crash safety architect departed the company, raising questions about the continuity of their safety development.

This recent round of IIHS crash tests serves as a crucial reminder that even established leaders in automotive safety must continuously innovate and refine their designs. For Tesla, a company often lauded for its safety features, these results underscore the dynamic and evolving nature of safety standards. It prompts a deeper look into specific components like lighting systems and rear passenger protection, suggesting that a holistic approach to safety, encompassing every detail, is paramount. This feedback from independent organizations like IIHS is invaluable, providing manufacturers with actionable insights to enhance vehicle integrity and, ultimately, protect lives on the road. It also encourages consumers to consider all aspects of safety ratings, moving beyond general perceptions to scrutinize detailed performance reports when making purchasing decisions.

Navigating the Skies: The Unforeseen Challenges of Aerial Innovation

A Mid-Air Mishap: Two eVTOLs Crash During Rehearsal

During a preparatory session for an air demonstration in China, two aerial vehicles from XPeng AeroHT, the division of XPeng dedicated to electric vertical takeoff and landing technology, experienced a mid-air collision. This unfortunate event led to a subsequent crash and caused injuries.

XPeng AeroHT's Journey into Aerial Mobility

For those who track developments in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) systems, XPeng AeroHT is likely a familiar name. This sustainable air travel enterprise originated from XPeng Inc., and its founder, He Xiaopeng, has showcased some of the most innovative "flying car" technologies available today. Established in 2013, AeroHT gained prominence in 2021 with the unveiling of the X2, their fifth-generation "flying car." Despite lacking wheels, it was dubbed a "flying car" due to its design echoing that of the XPeng P7 EV sedan.

Technological Advancements and Demonstrations

A year after the X2's debut, XPeng AeroHT released test footage of a legitimate flying vehicle capable of vertical takeoff and propeller deployment. Since then, the aerial mobility division has introduced a more refined version of its electric vehicle/eVTOL hybrid, along with a robust 6x6 all-wheel drive vehicle known as the Land Aircraft Carrier, which houses a separate eVTOL in its rear compartment.

The Details of the Collision Incident

During a recent air show in China, XPeng AeroHT was conducting rehearsals for an upcoming public demonstration of its eVTOL technology. Accounts indicate that two of XPeng's aircraft collided, resulting in a crash. According to reports from CnEVPost, the eVTOL incident occurred on the afternoon of September 16 at the Changchun Airshow in Jilin, northeastern China, where XPeng AeroHT was practicing for a live flight display. Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that two XPeng eVTOLs collided in the air, leading to a crash that hospitalized at least one individual, though fortunately, no injuries were life-threatening.

Company Response and Ongoing Investigation

XPeng AeroHT addressed CnEVPost's report, clarifying that the collision happened after the Changchun Air Show's pre-show rehearsal. Two eVTOLs were performing a dual-aircraft formation maneuver when they collided due to "insufficient separation distance." XPeng stated that one aircraft successfully landed, while the other suffered structural damage and ignited upon impact with the ground. All personnel present were confirmed safe, and emergency services swiftly completed on-site response procedures. XPeng AeroHT further noted that the precise cause of the accident remains under internal investigation.