Tesla reports that the all-electric sedan received a 5 stars in every NHTSA category. Only 1 percent of all manufacturer vehicles achieve a five star rating and the NHTSA does not publish a star rating above 5. However safety levels better than 5 stars are captured in the overall Vehicle Safety Score (VSS) provided to manufacturers. The S scored a record 5.4 VSS rating and set a new record for the lowest likelihood of injury to occupants.

The test scores are based on figures obtained during front, side, rear and rollover incidents. Tesla's high front collision score was achieved in part due to its large front crumple zone. With no massive gas/diesel engine up front, the Model S' front hood becomes more effective in diffusing energy because the entire zone being dedicated to safeguarding occupants.

Eoin Treacy's view While Tesla has made waves in the electric car sector by delivering on the type of range people require of a car that costs from $64000 to $85000, the fact that it is also an industry leader in safety will help to alleviate concerns consumers might have about what is still a very new technology.

The share broke successfully above $40 in March and continues to extend the breakout. It pulled back sharply a month ago, posting the largest downward dynamic in its short history, but quickly shrugged it off to post new highs. Tesla retested the $160 level yesterday and a sustained move below $130 would now be required to suggest a lengthier of progress of consolidation