The BYD eMax 9 DM-i has just secured a five-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program. It achieved this by delivering above-average results across four evaluations, including crash tests and available safety features.
Notably, the plug-in hybrid people hauler scored a perfect 100% in Post Crash, thanks to its collision protocols, battery voltage isolation, and fire-risk management. The evaluation also revealed that the eMax 9’s seatbelt buckles, door releases, and tailgate remained operable after the crash tests, ensuring passengers and emergency responders can still enter and exit the vehicle.
Its second-highest mark was then in Crash Protection, where the seven-seater received 89%. Side-impact crashes showed promising results for adult and child occupants, while the frontal tests displayed good to adequate levels of protection. However, ANCAP noted that child restraints should not be used in the third row, especially in the right and center seats.
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Moving on to Crash Avoidance and Safe Driving, the eMax 9 returned 78% and 75%, respectively. The former showed a responsive autonomous emergency braking system, coupled with a proficient lane departure avoidance system and good low-speed collision avoidance.
However, ANCAP deducted points due to the cyclist dooring system’s late alerts. As for Safe Driving, its score was also hurt due to select functions being too reliant on the main touchscreen. Perhaps more physical controls would have improved the eMax 9’s general in-car safety.
At the same time, advanced driving assists also helped its overall Safe Driving score. These include adaptive cruise control and steering assistance, as well as seatbelt reminders, child presence detection, and driver monitoring. All of these returned consistent performance and ultimately helped the eMax 9 secure its five-star rating.
