Experts raise safety concerns over Tesla Cybertruck’s stiff structure and sharp design

admin 2024年3月15日

science & technology, science & technology - expert

©REUTERS/Mike Blake

Vocabulary:

I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.

spark /spahrk/

[verb] – to cause the start of something, especially an argument or fighting
The controversial decision sparked intense debate among the members of the committee.

conclusive /kuhn-KLOO-siv/

[adjective] – proving that something is true, or ending any doubt
After extensive research, the conclusive evidence supported the theory and settled all doubts about the cause of the phenomenon.

distinctive /dih-STINGK-tiv/

[adjective] – something that is distinctive is easy to recognize because it is different from other things
Her distinctive style of painting, characterized by vibrant colors and bold strokes, made her artwork instantly recognizable among other artists.

wary /WAIR-ee/

[adjective] – not completely trusting or certain about something or someone
After being scammed once, she became wary of online offers that seemed too good to be true.

persist /per-SIST/

[verb] – if an unpleasant feeling or situation persists, it continues to exist
Despite numerous interventions, the issue persists, causing ongoing concern among the community.

Article reading:

Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.

Tesla’s innovative design of the Cybertruck, characterized by its angular and robust stainless-steel structure, has sparked apprehension among safety experts regarding potential risks to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles on the roads. Six safety professionals and officials, upon reviewing crash test videos showcased by Tesla during a recent webcast delivery event, expressed concerns over the vehicle’s safety implications. Despite the attention these crash test videos garnered on social media, experts highlighted the necessity for comprehensive crash-test data to draw conclusive safety assessments.

Adrian Lund, the former president of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, emphasized the potential harm caused by the Cybertruck’s stiff exterior upon collision, raising concerns about increased injury risks. While Tesla promoted the truck’s impact-absorbing structures, CEO Elon Musk affirmed its superior safety for occupants and pedestrians. However, the company has not yet responded to safety concerns raised by experts. The Cybertruck’s distinctive appearance, featuring flat planes and stainless-steel exteriors reminiscent of the iconic DeLorean from “Back to the Future,” has intrigued enthusiasts, but safety experts remain wary of its safety features, citing limited crumple zones and potential hazards for non-occupants. The discussion around the Cybertruck extended to its potential impact on road safety, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. European safety standards, focused on safeguarding pedestrians by restricting external protrusions, might pose challenges for the Cybertruck’s entry into the European market. While U.S. regulators rely on self-testing and certification by automakers to meet safety standards, concerns persist regarding the vehicle’s safety measures and its potential repercussions in collisions, prompting calls for careful consideration and thorough evaluation before its widespread adoption.

Discussion Questions:

I will read each question. Then, please answer them.

Have you ever encountered a situation where the design or appearance of a vehicle influenced your perception of its safety? If yes, how did it impact your decision-making process when considering that vehicle or vehicles with similar features? If not, what factors do you believe contribute to your perception of a vehicle’s safety?
If given the opportunity, would you consider test-driving or owning a unique-looking vehicle like the Tesla Cybertruck despite safety concerns raised by experts? Why or why not?
Should car companies provide and openly share detailed safety information about new and unique car designs, even if the designs are seen as groundbreaking or different?
How might the introduction of unique and unconventional vehicle designs, such as Tesla’s Cybertruck, challenge existing safety norms and standards in the automotive industry?
How important do you think it is for car manufacturers to prioritize both the safety of passengers inside a vehicle and those outside?

Summarization

Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.

Describe:

Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.

exterior
innovative
hazard
comprehensive
stainless-steel