Some of the most important data in the technical data sheets of electric vehicles it’s definitely autonomy. These data, however, varies depending on approval cycle with which it is calculated. In Europe, for example, the WLTP cycle is used, and in the USA, the EPA cycle is used. L’real autonomy, as we know, varies depending on many factors (outside temperature, type of route, load…). However, there are some models that manage to provide average mileage similar to approval cycles, while others produce very different results.
ConsumerReports wanted to conduct a new test to check the actual autonomy of a series of electric models to understand how close they are to the declared EPA cycle data. In particular, 22 electric vehicles tested which drove along sections of the freeway at 70 mph (about 112 km/h) until the battery ran out.
The test used vehicles owned by Consumer Reports that had already been driven between 2,000 (3,200 km) and 15,000 miles (24,100 km). Since driving in cold weather and turning on the heater can reduce the range of an electric vehicle, tests were carried out at ambient temperatures from 21 to 32 degrees. Tire pressures were set to the values recommended by the manufacturer. During the tests, the air conditioner was turned on and set to a temperature of 22 degrees. Mileage traveled was measured using GPS, and cruise control was used to maintain a constant speed.
Consumer Reports reports that of the 22 vehicles tested at highway speeds, nearly half did not reach the EPA cycle design range. The worst result was achieved by the Ford F-150 Lightning electric pickup, which achieved a range of 270 miles (434 km), which is 50 miles (80 km) less than the EPA cycle estimate.
Lucid Air Touring it traveled 344 miles (553 km), 40 miles (64 km) short of the promised 384 miles (617 km). Tesla Model C The EPA’s range is 405 miles (651 km), but in testing it achieved 366 miles (589 km). However, some BMW and Mercedes models managed to exceed the values set by the Environmental Protection Agency. Even models Rivian R1T and Ford Mustang Mach-E exceeded EPA estimates.
The car that drove the farthest Mercedes EX 580: 380 miles (611 km), which is 40 miles (64 km) more than the EPA rating.
Source: HD Motori
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.