#53 Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Safety

As the use of electric and hybrid vehicles (EHVs) increases, so too does research and attention to their safety compared with traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Data for Light vehicles from the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) shows a steady, gradual increase in EHV sales over the last 4 years, matched by a decline in ICE vehicle sales. EHVs comprised nearly 28% of new Light vehicle sales in the first 3 quarters of 2025, compared with almost 12% for the whole of 2022. Over the same period, ICE vehicles declined from 88% to 72% of sales.

While research on crash involvement and comparative risk of ICE vehicles versus EHVs in Australia is currently scarce, a recent study in the Netherlands analysed insurance data to provide some insights[1]. The study cites mixed findings of earlier research, including positive effects of regenerative braking and conservative driving to preserve battery life, but negatives regarding increased mental workload and reduced noise from EVs, increasing the risk to pedestrians. Other considerations include vehicle factors such as single pedal use and acceleration and braking performance measures. Also raised was the question of whether driver risk profiles differed for EHV drivers versus ICE vehicle drivers, where factors other than the vehicle itself may influence relative risk.

McDonnell et al. concluded that, compared with ICE vehicle drivers, EV drivers and Hybrid drivers had 4% and 6% increases in at-fault claims, respectively, despite lower average mileage and fewer harsh driving events. Costs per claim were also significantly higher for EHVs than for ICE vehicles, reflecting differences in repair and replacement costs. With EHV use far more prevalent in European countries such as the Netherlands, these findings are not necessarily transferable to Australia, where more research is needed.

[1] McDonnell, K. et al. (2024). Are electric vehicles riskier? A comparative study of driving behaviour and insurance claims for internal combustion engine, hybrid and electric vehicles. Accident Analysis and Prevention 207, 107761.