Electric Cars Tested in Brutal Conditions - Here’s What Happened to Their Range
A brutal winter range test in Norway revealed significant drops in electric vehicle ranges, with the Lucid Air performing best but still losing 46% of its estimated range.
In Norway, an annual winter range test for electric vehicles was conducted under exceptionally brutal conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between -8 to over -30 degrees Celsius. This extreme climate was a significant departure from previous tests, where temperatures rarely dipped below -10 degrees. The challenges posed by such cold weather proved detrimental to the performance of electric vehicles, leading to a record early conclusion of the test as the last participating car failed to operate due to the conditions.
Among the vehicles tested, the Chinese-made Lucid Air was able to cover the most distance, achieving a range of 520 kilometers even in the harsh frost. However, it also experienced the most substantial drop in range compared to its WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure) figures, losing 46% of its expected distance. Similarly, the Opel Grandland also demonstrated a considerable loss of range, although it was affected by a technical error that resulted in starting the test with only 94% battery charge, impacting its performance further.
The WLTP is a standardized testing method used to gauge fuel and energy consumption and emissions for vehicles, yet it often does not accurately reflect real-world consumption across various conditions. This winter test highlighted the limitations of the WLTP standards and served as a critical reminder for consumers regarding the advertised ranges of electric vehicles, particularly in extreme weather conditions, raising questions about the reliability of these figures for potential buyers in colder climates.