Electric Cars
Why Is My EV Range Lower Than Advertised?
Real-world range is consistently 20-30% below the WLTP/EPA figure shown when you bought the car.
What causes it
Official figures are measured in ideal lab conditions. Speed, temperature, heating, hills, tires and driving style all reduce real range.
Why it happens
- Highway speed - consumption rises with the square of speed; 130 km/h uses far more than 100 km/h.
- Cold weather - heating and cold chemistry cut range 20-40% in winter.
- Aggressive driving - rapid acceleration wastes energy.
- Low tire pressure - under-inflation adds rolling resistance.
How to get closer to the official figure
- Drive at 100-110 km/h on highways.
- Precondition while plugged in and use seat heaters instead of cabin heat.
- Check tire pressures monthly.
- Use Eco mode and gentle acceleration.
A realistic planning number is 70-80% of the official range for mixed use - plan charging stops on that basis.