EV Range Test: BMW Dominates While Ford and Tesla Disappoint.

Consumer Reports Puts Nearly 30 EVs Through Real-World Range Testing

According to Novyny.live: To assess how accurate automakers' range claims really are, experts at Consumer Reports tested close to 30 electric vehicles on an actual highway. The evaluation was conducted at a steady 113 km/h until each vehicle's battery was fully drained, providing objective data on real-world performance. The findings revealed that several models traveled further than their manufacturers had promised, while others fell short.

BMW emerged as the clear champion of the test, with its vehicles outperforming all rivals. The i4 M50 covered 512 km, far exceeding its advertised 430 km range. Similarly, the i5 M60 logged 474 km, beating its official estimate by 72 km. Additional standouts included the Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 and Mini Countryman SEL ALL4, both of which delivered a 12% improvement over their stated figures.

Korean and American Automakers: Mixed Results and Missed Marks

Korean manufacturers showed a high degree of accuracy overall. The Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 both recorded a deviation of just -0.6% from their claimed range. The Hyundai Ioniq 5N exceeded expectations by 24 km, though the Kia Niro fell 22 km short. These results indicate that while Korean brands generally deliver on their promises, not every model meets its target.

American automakers, however, faced notable disappointments. Among Tesla models, the Cybertruck and Model Y Long Range actually surpassed their limits, but the Model S Long Range missed its advertised range by 70 km. The Chevrolet Silverado EV fell 34 km short, and the Ford F-150 Lightning underperformed by 80 km. Even more striking, the Rivian R1S and Lucid Air Touring stopped 83 km earlier than expected, highlighting persistent range issues in American EVs.

Overall, the test results reveal a wide gap in real-world range performance. BMW and several Korean manufacturers delivered strong results, while many American models failed to live up to their billing. These findings could significantly influence consumer decisions, as accurate range estimates are a critical factor in EV purchases. Brands that consistently exceed expectations may gain a competitive edge, while those with range shortfalls risk damaging their reputation. Independent testing like this underscores its importance for buyers seeking the most reliable options for their needs.