EVs Outperform EPA Estimations: Study

Failed Targets: Natural Outcome

A new examination uncovers that not all of the publicized EPA-estimated ranges may be accurate, even though the ranking list of EVs with maximum range purportedly displays startling distances that a single charge can permit a vehicle to cover.

A Consumer Reports survey uncovered a noteworthy disparity in range between tested models. Topping the list was the Ford F-150 Lightning, whose 320 mile capacity was 50 miles lower than its EPA-estimate. Second in line was the Lucid Air, with 344 miles, an undershoot of the promised 384 miles. Lastly, the Tesla Model S sported an impressive 366 mile maximum – a mere 33 mile difference from its EPA projection.

In the interim, a number of electric vehicles like the Audi Q4, Genesis Electrified GV70, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Kia Niro EV, Lexus RZ450e, Nissan Ariya, and Subaru Solterra have each experienced a reduction of up to 20 miles in their maximum range.

What may have been the cause for the decline in range? Experiments were carried out on highways, where electric vehicles usually prove to be less efficient than when driving in a city. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) amalgamates town and motorway EV capability, which could potentially deceive.

The party of twenty-two cars – the odometers subject to 2,000 and 15,000 miles respectively – had their cruise control and Eco settings active, with a consistent speed of 70 mph. Additionally, the squad took into account that external temperature can alter EV range, as they performed the experiment in temperatures ranging from 70° to 90° Fahrenheit.

Despite the testing results that seemed to be unfavorable, there was, at the same time, plenty of good news. During this process, the EPA-rated distance for the Mercedes-Benz EQE four-door sedan was raised by a substantial 72 miles, bringing its score up to an impressive 260 miles. Furthermore, the BMW electric powered cars experienced noteworthy amplifications in travel range as well, with the i4 going up from 271 miles to 318 miles, and the mighty iX achieving 370 miles — which is a hefty 46 miles greater than the expected evaluation.

A number of electric vehicles have seen their ranges boosted, such as the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, which now goes 31 miles farther; the Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan and the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, gaining a 40-mile and 29-mile range respectively; the Ford Mustang Mach-E with an extra 29 miles; the Rivian R1T that can travel 20 miles further; the Volkswagen ID.4 that can go 13 miles more; the Hyundai Ioniq 5 another 11 miles; the Genesis GV60 three miles ahead; and the Kia EV6 too, boasting an extra three-mile range.

It is hoped that further investigations will rate EVs differently in terms of city driving and highway trips. This would give a better indication of which electronic vehicle to purchase, and allay any fears about ‘range anxiety’.