BATTERY RANGE ON THE RISE.
HOW ELECTRIC CAR RANGE IS CALCULATED.
The globally standardised measurement method for the range of electric cars is called the "Worldwide harmonised Light-Duty Vehicle Test Procedure" - WLTP for short.
Sometimes you also read NEDC: it refers to the "New European Driving Cycle", but this test method for Europe was replaced by the WLTP in 2021.
The new WLTP driving cycle provides more realistic consumption figures, taking into account situations that are closer to everyday life than the NEDC standard - the best way to estimate your daily consumption.
WLTP stands for:
- More realistic driving dynamics and outside temperature.
- Larger test distance
- Higher average and maximum speeds
- Less idle time
- More braking and acceleration
Read more about the NEFC and WLTP measurement methods here.
1 The above values were determined using the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning, thermal preconditioning.
ELECTRIC RANGE TEST METHOD.
There are two common test procedures worldwide for the range of electric cars: WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light-Duty Vehicle Test Procedure) and EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency). Both determine their data very close to everyday practice.
In the NEDC test, which will be used in Europe until 2020, the test possibilities were less realistic: the average speed was 34 km/h, the vehicle was only loaded with 100 kg (which does not even correspond to the driver and passenger) and real-life conditions such as temperature, weather conditions and driving style were not taken into account.
The two test methods commonly used today give you a better chance of realistically estimating the range of your electric car: The average speed is 46.5 km/h (maximum 131 km/h), the duration of the test has been increased from 21 to 30 minutes.
The WLPT also examines all available engine-transmission combinations - as well as optional equipment that also influences the weight and aerodynamics of the vehicle. Furthermore, measurements are taken at 23 °C and also at 14 °C, which corresponds to the average temperature in Europe.