In the realm of automotive safety, the Ford Explorer has not only set a benchmark but has continued to elevate it. With an impressive history of securing strong safety ratings, the Explorer has once again made headlines by securing the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ award for 2024. This accolade isn’t just another feather in Ford’s cap—it’s a testament to the vehicle’s unwavering commitment to passenger safety in an ever-evolving testing landscape.Â
The IIHS’s Top Safety Pick+ is a coveted status that only 22 vehicles have managed to achieve for the year 2024. This exclusive club isn’t easy to get into, especially with the IIHS tightening its evaluation criteria to push the boundaries of what it means to be a safe vehicle. For a car to earn this top-tier rating, it must not only meet but exceed in several rigorous tests. These include scoring a “good” in the newly updated side crash test—a test that has been made even more challenging with a heavier barrier and increased speed. Additionally, vehicles must secure an acceptable or good rating in both the revised pedestrian front crash prevention and the updated moderate front overlap test.Â
The Ford Explorer shines across these categories, demonstrating exceptional performance in small overlap front, modern overlap, and side crash tests. While it scored acceptable ratings for headlights and front crash prevention for pedestrians, as well as ease of child restraint/seat belt use, it’s clear there’s room for improvement in the seat belt reminder category, where it received a poor rating.Â
IIHS President David Harkey emphasizes the significance of the 2024 criteria updates, stating that this year’s winners represent the pinnacle of vehicle safety. These vehicles not only promise superior protection for their occupants but also ensure the well-being of other road users. Harkey’s message is clear: the path to achieving the highest safety standards requires a collective effort. Automakers, policymakers, and consumers must work hand in hand to enhance safety features, not just for individual families, but for everyone sharing the road.Â
As the Ford Explorer bags the Top Safety Pick+ for 2024, it’s a clear indicator of Ford’s dedication to safety innovation and its foresight in adapting to stricter testing protocols. This achievement not only sets a high bar for its competitors but also reassures consumers about the safety of their families and loved ones while on the road. In a world where road safety is paramount, the Ford Explorer stands out as a beacon of reliability and safety.Â
