The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently provided an update on its 2025 testing progress, focusing on seven electric vehicles currently undergoing evaluation. The results of the evaluations have been mixed, with no Top Safety Picks expected in this year’s group. Despite this, several vehicles have shown decent performances during testing.
The vehicles being evaluated include the 2025 BMW i4, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Ford F-150 Lightning, Nissan Ariya, Tesla Cybertruck, Tesla Model 3, and Volkswagen ID Buzz. Each vehicle has its own unique features, making direct comparisons challenging. However, the Cybertruck and F-150 Lightning have been closely matched in the evaluations, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses.
In the testing, the Lightning’s weakest result came in the moderate overlap test, which evaluates crashworthiness in glancing head-on collisions. The vehicle received a “marginal” rating in this test due to issues in the rear compartment, despite a good outcome for front passengers. On the other hand, the Tesla Cybertruck performed well in the moderate overlap test, earning a “Good” rating for trucks built from April 2025 onwards.
However, the Cybertruck is unlikely to receive a Top Safety Pick due to issues with its headlights. None of the vehicles in the group received a “good” rating for headlights, but the Cybertruck and BMW i4 received the lowest possible rating. Excessive glare from the low beams led to the downgrade of the Tesla’s standard headlights from “marginal” to “poor.”
To qualify for a Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must meet specific criteria in various crash tests, headlight ratings, and pedestrian crash avoidance tests. So far, only the Ariya and Blazer have completed their testing, but neither met the criteria for an award.
In conclusion, the ongoing evaluations by the IIHS highlight the importance of safety in electric vehicles. While some vehicles have shown promise in certain tests, there are areas that need improvement to meet the stringent safety standards set by the IIHS. Stay tuned for more updates on the safety ratings of these electric vehicles.
Byron, a contributing writer and auto reviewer, provides insightful analysis on infrastructure, sales, and regulatory matters within the automotive industry. The impact of social media on mental health
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, with billions of people around the world using platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to connect with others, share photos and updates, and stay informed about current events. While social media has many benefits, it also has a dark side that can negatively impact mental health.
One of the biggest ways in which social media can negatively affect mental health is through comparison. People often use social media to showcase the best parts of their lives, whether it’s through photos of exotic vacations, professional achievements, or perfect relationships. This can create a distorted view of reality, leading others to compare themselves unfavorably and feel inadequate. This can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, jealousy, and depression.
Another way in which social media can harm mental health is through cyberbullying. With the anonymity that social media provides, it’s easy for people to make hurtful comments or spread rumors about others. Cyberbullying can have devastating effects on a person’s mental health, leading to feelings of shame, anxiety, and even thoughts of suicide.
Additionally, the constant use of social media can contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation. While social media allows us to connect with others, the interactions are often superficial and lack the depth and intimacy of face-to-face relationships. This can lead to a sense of disconnection and loneliness, especially for those who spend a significant amount of time on social media.
Furthermore, social media can contribute to addiction and poor sleep habits. The constant stream of notifications, likes, and comments can be addictive, leading people to spend hours scrolling through their feeds instead of engaging in real-world activities. This can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration.
Despite these negative effects, it’s important to remember that social media can also have positive impacts on mental health. For example, social media can provide a sense of community and support for those who may feel isolated or marginalized in their offline lives. It can also be a platform for self-expression and creativity, allowing individuals to share their thoughts, ideas, and talents with a wider audience.
In conclusion, while social media has many benefits, it’s important to be mindful of its potential negative impact on mental health. By setting boundaries, limiting screen time, and seeking support when needed, we can mitigate the harmful effects of social media and foster a healthier relationship with technology.