Consumer Reports recently conducted a comprehensive test on the highway ranges of 22 popular electric vehicles (EVs), uncovering discrepancies between the actual and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated figures. In contrast to the EPA’s combined city and highway range assessments, Consumer Reports focused solely on highway driving conditions to evaluate the EVs.
Each vehicle, with odometer readings ranging from 2,000 to 15,000 miles, underwent a consistent highway range test, maintaining a constant speed of 70 mph until depletion. All tests occurred in temperatures ranging from 70 to 90°F, with standardized settings such as a climate control set to 72°F, cruise control engaged, and tire pressure at factory specifications.
Mercedes-Benz and BMW emerged as standout performers, exceeding their EPA-rated ranges. The Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic demonstrated an impressive 332 miles on a single charge, surpassing its EPA estimate by 72 miles. Similarly, the EQE SUV 350 4Matic exceeded expectations by 31 miles, achieving 284 miles compared to the EPA’s 253-mile estimate.
Among BMW models, the i4 M50 outperformed its range claim by 47 miles, covering 318 miles compared to the stated 271 miles. The iX xDrive50 also exceeded expectations, achieving a range of 370 miles, surpassing the EPA estimate by 46 miles.
Other EVs that surpassed their EPA range figures include the Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium AWD Extended Range, Hyundai Ioniq 5 SEL AWD, Rivian R1T, and VW ID.4 Pro S.
However, not all EVs performed above expectations. The Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat Extended Range fell short, covering only 270 miles, a significant 50 miles less than the EPA figure. Other underperformers included the Lucid Air Touring (-40 miles), Tesla Model S Long Range (-39 miles), and Lexus RZ 450e Premium (-18 miles).
