See Which Automated SUV Hatches Will Slice a Carrot—or a Finger

Mar 29, 2024 at 4:15 PM
Assessing the Safety of Automatic Vehicle Hatches: A Carrot and Cucumber Experiment

Assessing the Safety of Automatic Vehicle Hatches: A Carrot and Cucumber Experiment

As the digital age brings about innovative automotive designs, the safety of these features becomes a paramount concern. A recent experiment involving a carrot and a cucumber has shed light on the potential risks posed by the automatic hatches of several new vehicles. This investigation delves into the responsiveness of these systems when faced with an obstruction, revealing a spectrum of results that could mean the difference between a close call and a trip to the emergency room.

Discover the Surprising Results of the Ultimate Safety Test: When Vegetables Meet Vehicle Hatches

The Carrot and Cucumber Test

In an eye-opening display of practical testing, a recent viral sensation has brought the safety of vehicle hatches into the spotlight. A popular YouTuber's experiment, which involved inserting a carrot into the front trunk of a Cybertruck and observing the outcome, has sparked widespread concern. The automated compartment's failure to halt upon encountering the vegetable has raised questions about the potential harm to human extremities in similar scenarios.

Subsequently, a luxury car dealership in Russia offered a compelling counter-demonstration. A well-dressed salesman replicated the test across various SUV models, using both a carrot and a cucumber to gauge the force and sensitivity of their automatic hatches. The results were telling, with some vehicles displaying a remarkable ability to detect and avoid crushing the produce, while others were less forgiving.

Mercedes-Benz GLS450's Response

The Mercedes-Benz GLS450 showcased a commendable detection system, though not without exerting some pressure on the carrot. The hatch paused momentarily after inflicting a noticeable crack on the vegetable before retracting. This incident highlights the vehicle's balance between sensitivity and the need for improvement to prevent potential injuries.

Despite the minor damage to the carrot, the GLS450's ability to reverse its closing action is a testament to the vehicle's commitment to safety. It serves as a reminder that even the most advanced systems require continuous refinement to ensure the well-being of users.

BMW X7's Automatic Hatch

The BMW X7's hatch mechanism demonstrated a similar level of awareness, snapping the carrot in two before emitting a warning beep and reopening. Interestingly, the cucumber was spared in this trial, possibly due to its positioning during the test. This outcome suggests that while the system is responsive, its calibration may need adjustment to better detect varying sizes and shapes of potential obstructions.

Although the BMW X7's hatch responded appropriately by reopening, the initial breakage of the carrot indicates room for enhancement in the vehicle's automatic detection capabilities.

Toyota Highlander's Safety Mechanism

The Toyota Highlander's hatch responded with impressive alacrity, pinching the vegetables but not causing any breakage. The slight upward tilt of the produce during the test required the salesman to step in, yet the hatch promptly reversed its motion upon sensing the obstruction.

This quick reaction time of the Highlander's safety mechanism is a positive sign, suggesting a higher degree of protection against accidental injury. The vehicle's ability to detect and respond to obstructions without causing damage is a commendable feature that sets a benchmark for safety.

Kia Carnival's Superior Detection

Emerging as the frontrunner in this unconventional safety test, the Kia Carnival displayed an exceptional detection system. The hatch ceased its motion at the slightest contact with the carrot and cucumber, preventing any harm to the vegetables. This sensitivity to obstructions indicates a superior level of safety that could translate to greater peace of mind for users.

The Carnival's immediate halt and reversal upon detecting the produce exemplify the ideal response for automatic hatches, showcasing the vehicle's advanced safety technology and its potential to safeguard passengers and bystanders alike.

Tesla Cybertruck's Hazardous Design

Contrasting sharply with the other vehicles, the Tesla Cybertruck's front trunk presented a stark safety concern. Not only did it sever both the carrot and cucumber, but it also failed to recognize the presence of an obstacle, sealing the hatch with the remnants of the vegetables trapped within. This lack of sensitivity could pose a serious risk to users.

Moreover, an in-person review of the Cybertruck revealed additional hazards, such as the propensity of the frunk's bare metal edges to cause cuts. These sharp edges, coupled with the potential for rapid corrosion, underscore the need for a thorough reassessment of the vehicle's safety design.