Group EV range tests provide invaluable insights into how different electric vehicles perform under identical conditions. These tests, conducted on the same roads and under the same environmental factors, offer a direct comparison of EV ranges. Recently, a comprehensive test in Norway pitted 27 electric vehicles against each other to evaluate their real-world range relative to their claimed WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) range. This test, organized by the Norwegian Automobile Federation (NAF), serves as a practical benchmark for EV performance, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of current electric vehicle technology.
The Lucid Air Grand Touring emerged as the range champion in the NAF test, covering an impressive 514 miles (828.6 kilometers) on a single charge. This performance aligns with other independent tests, solidifying its reputation as a leader in EV range. However, the Lucid Air also exhibited the largest discrepancy between its real-world range and its WLTP-claimed range of 596 miles (960 km). The difference of 81 miles (131 km), or 13.7%, raises questions about the accuracy of the WLTP standard in representing real-world driving conditions. Despite its superior range, the Lucid Air’s deviation from its WLTP figure highlights the challenges in achieving consistent performance across varied environments.
The Lucid Air Grand Touring boasts a substantial 118 kWh battery pack, providing it with an EPA-rated range of 516 miles when equipped with 19-inch wheels – the same configuration used in the Norway test. Known for its exceptional efficiency, the Lucid Air stands out in its ability to maximize range relative to its size and battery capacity.
The discrepancy between WLTP-claimed ranges and real-world performance is a recurring theme in EV testing. While WLTP standards are designed to provide a standardized measure of range, they often fall short of replicating the diverse conditions encountered in everyday driving. The Norway test underscores this point, revealing that even top-performing EVs like the Lucid Air can exhibit significant deviations from their WLTP figures. This variance is attributed to factors such as temperature, driving style, terrain, and the use of auxiliary features like air conditioning and heating. Understanding these differences is crucial for consumers to make informed decisions about EV purchases and range expectations.
| EV Model | WLTP Range (Miles) | Actual Range (Miles) | Difference (Miles) | Difference (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lucid Air Grand Touring | 596 | 514 | -81 | -13.7% |
Interestingly, the Norway test also revealed that several EVs exceeded their WLTP-claimed ranges. The Tesla Model Y led this group, 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 outperformed its official range, driving 368 miles (593 km), which is 32 miles (52 km) beyond its WLTP claim. The Tesla Model 3 also demonstrated impressive performance, recording the second-highest range in the test at 448 miles (721 km), exceeding its WLTP number by 11 miles (19 km).
Other EVs that exceeded their WLTP ranges in the test included the BYD Tang, Peugeot e-5008, MG Marvel R, 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. Even the Skoda Enyaq, a popular EV in Europe, nearly matched its claimed range, falling just 1.2 miles (2 km) short.
Environmental conditions play a significant role in determining EV range. The NAF range test in Norway took place over two days, with all vehicles driven on the same route at consistent speeds until depletion. The route included a mix of fast and slow roads, traversing hills and valleys from near sea level to altitudes of almost 3,280 feet (1,000 meters). The ambient temperature during the test ranged from 44.6°F to 62.6°F (7°C to 17°C). These conditions, while representative of real-world driving, differ significantly from the controlled environment of the WLTP test cycle, which maintains a constant temperature of 73.4°F (23°C) without the use of air conditioning or heating. This difference in testing environments largely explains the discrepancies between WLTP ranges and real-world results.
The NAF emphasizes that their test is not a scientific experiment but rather a “snapshot” of what drivers can expect in typical driving scenarios. It raises the question of whether a Lucid Air, driven under ideal WLTP conditions, could potentially achieve even greater ranges. While speculative, it highlights the potential for EVs to perform optimally under controlled settings, albeit with limited practicality for everyday use.
