Many argue that new cars aren't as beautiful as their classic counterparts. Others say that older vehicles are more fun to drive, offering an unrivaled analog experience. While that may be true, there's no denying that the modern alternatives are far safer, offering superior crash protection when compared to models of yesteryear.

Modern driver-assist features may not be perfect, but tech such as autonomous emergency braking has saved countless lives. But when it's too late to rely on active safety features, occupants have no choice but to rely on the vehicle's passive safety features, which include airbags and crumple zones.

It's a constantly developing field; manufacturers work tirelessly to make sure the latest cars possess a high level of safety in the event of a crash. Nissan is no exception, working hard to ensure its upcoming Ariya EV provides the utmost protection.

From inception to market launch, Nissan has subjected the battery-powered SUV to as many as 400 safety tests. Through this rigorous testing, Nissan has been able to evaluate more than 100 data points on the Ariya. Aside from the usual frontal-, side- and rear-impact collision testing, engineers also subjected the Ariya to simulations involving pedestrians.

"At Nissan, we are developing vehicles based on our Safety Shield Concept," said Gen Tatabe of the Passive Safety Evaluation Group. He continued, "Our tests have confirmed that the Ariya's body and cabin structure is able to absorb a variety of impacts, offering protection in the event of a collision."

Crash test dummies equipped with advanced sensors relay information about potential injury, allowing Nissan's safety team to enhance overall vehicle safety.

One of the biggest concerns surrounding EVs, aside from range anxiety, is the potential for a fire in a crash. We've seen what can happen when an electric vehicle is involved in a particularly violent impact and it's not pretty. The automaker acknowledges the increased risks associated and, as such, subjects the Ariya to the same exacting standards employed in the safety development of the Leaf.

Because the SUV's battery pack is high voltage, Nissan's safety engineers ensured the vehicle retained its structural rigidity to prevent electrodes from leaking. "We make sure the battery pack is properly retained in the vehicle after a crash and that [there are no leaks]."

Deliveries of the front-wheel-driven Ariya are set to commence in fall 2022, with the AWD model to follow shortly thereafter. With the entry-level model priced at just under $46,000, the stylish EV will definitely steal a few sales from the likes of the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y.