EV Range Test: Lucid Air Wins but Falls Short

1. Introduction: Unveiling the Great EV Range Test

Understanding the real-world range of electric vehicles (EVs) is crucial for potential buyers and current owners alike. To shed light on this, the Norwegian Automobile Federation (NAF), akin to the AAA in the United States, conducted a comprehensive EV range test in Norway. This test involved 27 different EVs, all driven under the same conditions, to evaluate how closely they matched their claimed Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) ranges. The results offer valuable insights into the performance of EVs in everyday driving scenarios. Group range tests are invaluable as they provide a direct comparison of multiple EVs under identical conditions, eliminating variables that can skew individual tests. This allows for a more accurate understanding of how different models perform relative to each other.

2. Lucid Air’s Performance: A Paradox of Range and Reality

The Lucid Air Grand Touring emerged as the range champion in the NAF test, traveling an impressive 514 miles (828.6 kilometers) on a single charge. This performance aligns with other independent tests, solidifying its reputation as a long-range EV. However, a closer look reveals a significant discrepancy between its actual range and its claimed WLTP range of 596 miles (960 km). The difference of 81 miles (131 km), or 13.7%, raises questions about the accuracy of the WLTP rating in real-world conditions. While the WLTP is known to produce more optimistic range figures than the EPA test cycle used in the U.S., the magnitude of the difference for the Lucid Air was unexpected. This is noteworthy considering the Lucid Air’s exceptional efficiency and large 118 kWh battery pack, which contributes to its EPA-rated range of 516 miles with 19-inch wheels. The following table illustrates the range performance of the Lucid Air in the NAF test compared to its WLTP and EPA ratings.

3. Surpassing Expectations: EVs That Outperformed WLTP Claims

Interestingly, the NAF test also revealed that several EVs exceeded their WLTP claimed ranges. The Tesla Model Y led the pack, achieving 405 miles (652 km) on a single charge, surpassing its WLTP range by 41 miles (66 km) or 11.3%. Similarly, the Zeekr 001, a competitor from China, also outperformed its official range, driving 368 miles (593 km), which is 32 miles (52 km) more than its WLTP claim. The Tesla Model 3 secured the second-highest range in the test, reaching 448 miles (721 km), exceeding its WLTP number by 11 miles (19 km). Other EVs that exceeded their WLTP ranges included the BYD Tang, Peugeot e-5008, MG5, VW ID.7 GTX Tourer, Polestar 4, BMW iX, BYD Seal U, Lotus Emeya, Opel Grandland, Mercedes-Benz G580, Voyah Free and Porsche Macan EV. The Skoda Elroq nearly matched its claimed range, falling short by a mere 1.2 miles (2 km). The table below summarizes the performance of selected EVs that exceeded their WLTP ranges.

4. Test Conditions and Their Impact on EV Range

The NAF range test was conducted over two days, with all EVs driven on the same route at a consistent speed until they could no longer continue and required towing. The route encompassed a variety of road types, including fast and slow roads, hills, and valleys, with elevations ranging from sea level to nearly 3,280 feet (1,000 meters). Ambient temperature, a significant factor influencing EV range, varied between 44.6°F and 62.6°F (7°C and 17°C) during the test. NAF emphasized that the test was not a scientific experiment but rather a “snapshot” of real-world EV performance. The WLTP test cycle, conducted in a controlled laboratory environment at 73.4°F (23°C) without climate control, differs significantly from real-world driving conditions, contributing to the observed discrepancies. The impact of test conditions on EV range is summarized in the table below.

5. Frequently Asked Questions