Despite the advancements in Electric Vehicles (EVs), range anxiety continues to be a significant concern for many potential buyers. This fear often leads to hesitation, even when most modern EVs offer impressive range capabilities.
The Range Test
The automotive YouTube channel What Car recently tested 12 of the leading EVs from well-known manufacturers to see how far they could go before needing a charge. They compared these results to the official WLTP figures provided by the car makers.
The EVs included in this range test were the Tesla Model 3 RWD, Polestar 2, Renault Scenic, Kia EV9, Audi Q6 e-tron, BMW i5, Cupra Born, Volvo EX30, Hyundai Kona, Peugeot e-308 SW, Mini Cooper, and an older Tesla Model S from 2015 that has driven over 250,000 miles.
Testing Conditions
The testing was designed to reflect real driving conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic, highway driving, and some high-speed maneuvers. Unlike a previous test conducted in winter, this one took place in summer, taking advantage of favorable weather and temperature to maximize the electric range.
Surprising Results
The results were intriguing, with some unexpected outcomes based on the performance of the different EVs. Despite having the largest battery at 99.8 kWh, the Kia EV9 secured only third place by traveling 314 miles before running out of charge. The Renault Scenic followed closely behind in second place, reaching 322 miles with an efficiency of 3.7 miles/kWh.
The Polestar 2 emerged as the leader of the range test, achieving an impressive 333 miles thanks to its efficiency of 4.2 miles/kWh. However, it was not the most efficient vehicle in the test; that title went to the Model 3, which managed only 255 miles—about 19.7% lower than its WLTP estimate—yet boasted a commendable efficiency of 4.4 miles/kWh.
Notably, the nearly decade-old Model S 90D, which has over 260,000 miles on the odometer, still managed a respectable range of 213 miles despite its age and battery wear. This aligns with previous findings indicating that even after extensive use, EVs remain practical for daily driving with adequate range.
What Car? via YouTube
