Are you considering switching to an electric car but worried about range? Fear not! Range anxiety is practically a thing of the past as manufacturers compete to bring us stylish models, with seriously impressive electric mileage.
Range is one of the top things people look at when buying an electric car, and it’s not hard to see why. With no engine as backup, feeling confident the vehicle will get you from A to B without any hassle is a top priority – especially for those doing motorway miles.
The basics of electric car range aren’t that complicated. But there are a few things to ask before deciding which model is best for you. Below, our guide covers the most commonly asked questions about electric car range to help you transition to greener motoring.
What is electric car range?
EV range is simply how many miles you get between charges. This figure varies significantly depending on the model you choose. This is due to the battery size in the vehicle and its power consumption. The larger the battery, the more miles you get.
How is range calculated?
You’ll probably have seen range figures referred to as official WLTP. This stands for Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure, and it’s how all cars sold in Europe are rated for factors such as CO2 emissions, fuel consumption and pollutants.
The WLTP is determined in test conditions. So, the WLTP electric range represents what a car may achieve in ‘near-perfect’ conditions. However, in reality, the real-world range is likely to be less. This is because external factors affect range, much like a conventional car. So, anything from driving conditions to speed can determine how many miles you get between charges.
What affects electric car range?
Temperature
Batteries are affected by how hot or cold it is outside – the same applies to an EV. Extreme temperatures will affect the range. In the winter, you’ll typically see slightly less range between charges, especially as you’re heating the interior. More ambient temperatures, on the other hand, may give you a few more miles per charge.
Speed and acceleration
Electric cars have instant torque, so putting your foot down a little more on the accelerator is tempting. However, a heavy foot here will deplete the range faster than smoother acceleration.
The handy thing about EVs is there are often a few driving modes to choose from. For example, Eco mode will optimise your driving to give as much range as possible. In addition, a Normal driving mode balances performance and efficiency.
Your overall speed is another factor. Research shows that driving at slower speeds optimises range compared to faster speeds.
Heating and air-con
If you’re prone to blasting the heat on in winter or the air-con during summer, be prepared to see the range deplete slightly more than average. However, most of the other electrical features on the car have no significant effect on the battery range. So, perhaps preheat the vehicle while it’s on charge in the morning to optimise your miles.
Battery condition
Over time, electric batteries start to degrade. While you won’t notice a significant difference, the maximum battery capacity decreases after some years. This, in turn, affects how much you can charge it up, as it won’t be 100% like when first purchased.
Terrain
Driving conditions can affect the electric range. For example, travelling in hilly areas will require more power to get you up inclines. On the plus side, regenerative braking in these conditions offers some clawback on the range. If you take your foot off the accelerator as you descend, the electric motor reverses. So the kinetic energy is put back into the battery.
Car model and weight
The size of the car and its weight also affect the battery range. While larger cars typically have large batteries, the model still weighs more, meaning you may get less range than anticipated. For example, the Audi e-tron 55 Quattro is one of the heavier SUVs at 2,720kg with a range of 225 miles. In comparison, the BMW iX3 weighs 2,300kg but has a range of around 240 miles.
The range will also be affected slightly by the number of passengers in the car. Plus, any storage used up in the boot space.
How to improve your electric car range
Numerous things affect battery range. However, some factors can optimise it, such as:
Optimise charging times
Electric car technology allows you to control and schedule the charging sessions of your car. This enables you to optimise charging levels and program elements such as preheating or pre-cooling the cabin while on charge.
Creating an ambient temperature in the cabin before you set off means you’re less likely to switch the air con or heat on while driving, increasing range in the process.
Top-up charging
Maintaining battery health is vital for keeping optimum range levels. To help with this, top-up charging is an effective method. If you’re frequently taking short journeys, keeping the battery charge between 20% and 80% helps to prolong battery health. In comparison, consistently depleting and recharging the battery to 100% affects its longevity.
Choose a larger battery size
If you’re looking to maximise range, choose a model with a larger battery pack option. The bigger the battery, the more range it has. However, be aware that a heavy car could affect its maximum range too.
Can EVs travel long distances?
In short, yes! But, depending on how far you want to travel, a top-up charge may be required. Many electric cars have a range of over 250 miles nowadays. However, if you’re travelling from Bournemouth to Edinburgh, for example, even cars with the longest ranges will have to stop during the 465-mile journey.
Just like conventional cars, a stop for a recharge is simple. Most rapid chargers give you a boost of up to 80% in around 30 minutes. So, it’s an ideal time to grab a coffee while you wait.
What are the best models for electric range?
The range of electric cars varies between models, as does the price. Whether you’re looking for a commuter with long-range or a vehicle for city driving, we cover some of the best for each journey below.
Best cars between 150 – 250 miles range
Vauxhall Mokka-e
The Mokka-e is a great compact SUV with a claimed 209 miles of range – ample for shorter commutes and urban driving. Its stylish exterior and comfortable interior make it ideal for everyday driving. Plus, its driving modes and instrument panel give you all the information and efficiency you need to optimise the travel miles.
Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf has proved a big hit since its introduction to the EV market, and it’s not hard to see why. The new Leaf is stylish, innovative and packs an impressive 239 miles between charges. In addition, it may look compact from the outside, but inside provides a comfortable and spacious ride with plenty of room in the boot.
Volkswagen ID.4
VW are no stranger to stylish models, and the ID.4 is no exception. This model comes in four battery variants, with the most affordable giving up to 223 miles range. The higher output option takes this car up to 320 miles between charges. So, there’s an option suited to your needs.
Best cars between 250 – 350 miles range
Kia Soul EV
With a distinctive design, comfortable cabin and innovative safety and infotainment systems, the Kia Soul EV is an ideal family runaround. What’s more, up to 280 miles between charges make it perfect for urban driving and motorway miles.
Audi Q8 e-tron
If you’re looking for a sporty aesthetic with sleek styling and impressive driveability, the Q8 e-tron is a great option. Not only does it make green motoring a fun experience, it also goes the distance with up to 330 miles range – plenty for road trips, business events and everything in between.
BMW iX3
This premium all-electric SUV features BMW’s signature styling, striking road presence, and impressive performance. There’s a lot to love about the iX3, and the range isn’t too bad either at 285 miles. This makes it a great family drive but also suited to commutes and business use.
Best cars with over 350-mile range
Mercedes EQS
For the latest in luxury, technology and road appeal, Mercedes present its all-electric EQS model. This saloon has one of the best-claimed ranges in the market – up to 453 miles. With that comes a host of premium accents, including first-class comfort, making it the ideal business commuter for motorway miles.
Tesla Model S
Tesla is renowned for its long ranges, and the Model S is no exception. This car provides up to 405 miles of range between charges and boasts impressive performance as standard. Both the inside and out are sleek and minimalist, and with access to Tesla’s charging network, you can recharge up to 172 miles in 15 minutes.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
The all-new Ioniq 6 is a step up in the style stakes compared to its predecessor. Not only that, it has a host of state-of-the-art features, including a choice of drivetrain and battery set-ups. If you’re looking for the longest range, choose the rear-wheel 77.4kWh battery option for up to 382 miles between charges.
What range can you get for your money?
Best range for cars between £25k and £30k
- Vauxhall Corsa-e – up to 222 miles | from £29,305
- Citroen e-C4 – up to 219 miles | from £29,995
- MG4 EV – up to 281 miles | from £25,995
Best range for cars between £30k and £40k
- Peugeot e-208 – up to 225 miles | from £30,195
- Kia Niro EV – up to 285 miles | from £36,245
- Volkswagen ID.4 – up to 328 miles | from £38,710
Best range for cars between £40k - £50k
- Tesla Model 3 – up to 374 miles | from £48,490
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 – up to 315 miles | from £43,150
- Audi Q4 e-tron – up to 321 miles | from £46,385
Best range for cars over £50k
- Mercedes EQS – up to 453 miles | from £105,610
- BMW iX – up to 380 miles | from £69,905
- Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron – up to 343 miles | from £71,095
*prices subject to change
What type of car has the best range?
Best saloon electric ranges
Tesla Model 3
With minimalist styling inside and out, the Tesla Model 3 is a high-performance yet understated saloon with a surprisingly spacious interior. Moreover, as you’d expect from Tesla, this model travels up to 374 miles, making it ideal for all journeys.
BMW i7
For the ultimate in luxury and electric performance, the i7 doesn’t disappoint. BMW are renowned for sleek saloon models, and this certainly follows suit. Alongside its numerous premium features, this impressive model also provides up to 387 miles of range. It’s the ideal green business commuter!
Best SUV electric ranges
Nissan Ariya
The Ariya is another popular SUV in the market with premium touches. Inside is roomy, and the state-of-the-art infotainment system and touchscreen have an eye-catching appeal. In addition to its sleek design, you get up to 329 miles of range.
MG ZS
MG is upping the ante in electric car production, and its latest is a compact SUV with plenty of space for everyone. You can choose battery sizes in the ZS, but the largest is the best option giving up to 273 miles of range – all for an affordable price.
Best crossover/hatchback electric ranges
Kia EV6
This spacious and stylish design is a popular family electric car. There’s a choice of power outputs in the EV6 and ultra-fast charging times for convenience. Range-wise, you get up to 328 miles between charges, making it ideal for all journeys.
Volkswagen ID.3
The ID.3 is an ideal hatchback for everyday driving. It’s stylish and dons the popular VW logo, so there’s a lot to like about its design and performance. You can also travel up to 265 miles on a single charge.
*Above figures are claimed WLTP manufacturer ranges.
Find out more about electric cars
Looking to make the switch to electric but want to learn more about EVs? Check out our Electric Leasing Guides for more details on the benefits, costs and types of electric vehicles to choose from.
