Admin
01 May 2023
If you don’t know your WLTP from your RWR, then you’re not alone! When you first start driving an electric vehicle (EVs), there is lots of terminology to get used to, and understanding your range is something you’ll quickly want to get to grips with. There are various things that can affect your electric range, and we look at a couple of the key things below:
WLPT vs RWR
Once you start driving your new car, you’ll quickly realise that the manufacturer advertised range – the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) often varies from the RWR (Real World Range) that you receive in reality. A variety of things can affect this, which we’ll look at below.
Your driving style
Your car will rely on your driving style to estimate what electric range (mileage) you will receive from a full charge. As technology develops, so does a cars ability to maximise your battery, most recently seen in the new Mercedes EQS which uses intuitive intelligent regeneration technology to learn from your driving style and maximise your range. Town-based driving can actually work to your advance, as you brake often, with regeneration benefitting from shorter runs. For those that have a longer commute or spend time on Britain’s motorways, a top tip is to remain 2-3 miles below the speed limit. If you like driving fast you need to be aware that the car’s mileage will react to that and you might receive less mileage than expected.
Air conditioning and cabin tech
With an EVs you’ll be much more aware of the impact of things such as air conditioning, and your infotainment system on your electric range. As all power comes from your battery, different car assets will have a different impact. From our team’s experience of adopting an EV lifestyle, we find that air conditioning is the biggest drain on a battery’s power. when you switch it on, the car will compensate for this and will likely reduce your available range by 10-15 miles. However, when you switch it off the car will adjust the mileage and it will increase again. Your cars radio, making phone calls, using wipers and screen wash will have a minimal impact and you’ll likely not even notice. Similarly, heated seats, which you’d expect to use a lot of energy, don’t really impact on your range.
Considering make the move to an electric mobility? Arrange a call with our expert team who would be delighted to chat to you about all things EVs!
