New Audi e-tron 2021: Incoming Tesla Model X rival smashes ANCAP safety testing

Ahead of its Australian launch late this year, Audi’s first all-electric SUV, the mid-size e-tron, has been awarded a five-star safety rating by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).

ANCAP based its assessment on that of its European counterpart, Euro NCAP, and given the latter tested the e-tron last year, it was judged in line with its 2018-2019 protocol, which has since been superseded.

Either way, the e-tron scored 91 per cent in the Adult Occupant Protection category, including a perfect result in the Side Impact crash test, although it was found to offer ‘weak’ chest protection for the driver in the Oblique Pole crash test.

The e-tron wasn’t far off this mark in the Child Occupant Protection category, scoring 88 per cent, with a perfect result coming in the Side Impact crash test.

The Vulnerable Road User Protection category proved to be the e-tron’s toughest, with it scoring 71 per cent, although a perfect result was achieved in the Lower Leg Impact crash test.

Splitting the difference was the Safety Assist category, as the e-tron scored 78 per cent, including a perfect result for the Seat Belt Reminders test.

“The battery-electric Audi e-tron is well-equipped with a range of safety features and technologies, and offers a high level of protection to child occupants,” said ANCAP director of communications and advocacy Rhianne Robson.

ANCAP’s five-star rating applies to the e-tron’s entry-level 50 and mid-range 55 variants – but only in traditional wagon form, as the coupe-style Sportback body style is yet to be assessed.

As reported, the e-tron is Audi’s answer to the longstanding Tesla Model X and the recently launched Mercedes-Benz EQC. Its local pricing and specification are yet to be announced.