Tesla Model S: the safest car in the world? In "side pole intrusion" tests the Model S preserved 63.5 per cent of driver residual space, which Tesla says is thanks to multiple energy-absorbing aluminium extrusions in the side rails of the car that use similar technology to that of the Apollo Lunar Lander. Tesla also says that the Model S offers considerably better rollover protection than its rivals. In independent tests the car refused to roll over via "normal methods," it says, due to the low centre of gravity created by its floor-mounted battery pack. It also claims that: "During validation of Model S roof crush protection at an independent commercial facility, the testing machine failed at just above 4g's. While the exact number is uncertain due to Model S breaking the testing machine, what this means is that at least four additional fully loaded Model S vehicles could be placed on top of an owner's car without the roof caving in. This is achieved primarily through a centre (B) pillar reinforcement attached via aerospace grade bolts. The company also points out that the Model S's lithium-ion battery did not catch fire during NHTSA testing, and says that no production Tesla model has had a battery fire. Rear-facing seats that fold up from the boot floor are an option for the Model S. Tesla says that when these are fitted, a special "double bumper" is fitted to provide better crash protection. The Tesla Model S hasn't been tested in Euro NCAP crash tests. The fully electric Model S is powered by a 410bhp electric motor that gives a 0-60mph time of 5.4 sec and a top speed of 125mph. It will be available in the UK with two batteries - one that gives a maximum range of about 230 miles and one that gives a 300-mile range. UK deliveries (of right-hand drive cars) will start in spring 2014. The Model S is expected to cost about £90,000 and it will be a rival for luxury saloons such as the Audi A8, Maserati Quattroporte and Mercedes-Benz S-class.