Factors that affect range when running on electricity

The car's range for electric operation depends on several factors. The ability to achieve a long range varies according to the circumstances and conditions under which the car is being driven.

The certified value for the car's mileage on electric power should not be interpreted as an expected range. The certification value is a comparative value obtained by means of special EU drive cycles. The actual range is dependent on a number of factors.

Factors that affect the range

The driver can influence some factors, but has no influence over others.

The longest range is achieved under extremely favourable conditions when all factors have a positive impact.

Factors the driver cannot influence

There are several external factors that affect the range in varying degrees:

  • traffic situation
  • short driving distances
  • topography
  • outside temperature and headwind
  • road condition and surface.

The table shows the approximate relationship between outside temperature and range, both in a car with deactivated passenger compartment climate control, as well as in a car with normal passenger compartment climate control.

A warmer outside temperature has a positive effect on range to a certain extent.

Outside temperatureDeactivated passenger compartment climate control Normal passenger compartment climate control
30 °C (86 °F)95 %80 %
20 °C (68 °F)100 %90 %
10 °C (50 °F)90 %80 %
0 °C (32 °F)80 %60 %
-10 °C (14 °F)70 %40 %

Factors the driver can influence

The driver should be aware that the following factors affect the range so he/she can operate the car in an energy-efficient manner:

  • regular charging
  • preconditioning
  • drive mode Pure
  • climate settings
  • speed and acceleration
  • Hold function
  • tyres and tyre pressure.

The table shows the approximate relationship between constant speed and range, where a lower constant speed has a positive effect on range.

Constant speed
100 km/h (62 mph)50 %
80 km/h (50 mph)70 %
60 km/h (37 mph)90 %
50 km/h (31 mph)100 %

 Note

  • The values shown in the tables relate to a new car.
  • These values are not absolute, but are dependent upon driving behaviour, environment and other circumstances.