02:15 19-11-2025

Real-world EV range test: 70 models on the road, 23 over 500 km

French outlet Largus has carried out one of the most extensive real‑world EV trials to date, sending more than 70 models onto public roads. The headline result speaks for itself: 23 cars covered over 500 km on a single charge—not by WLTP paperwork, but in conditions that closely mirror everyday driving.

The Mercedes EQS 450+ led the pack with an impressive 667 km, a result earned by its large battery and excellent aerodynamics. It was followed by the Volkswagen ID.7 Pro and the Mercedes CLA 250+, each reaching 588 km. Also among the top performers were the Porsche Taycan, Ford Explorer Extended Range, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Tesla Model Y Long Range, and Kia EV4.

Renault’s Scenic E-Tech stood out for a different reason: it managed 504 km in the real world against a claimed 620 km WLTP. The gap is notable, even with its sizable 87 kWh battery.

Experts stressed that these distances assume using 100% of the battery—a rarity on long trips, where drivers typically have around 70% of capacity at their disposal. Even so, a practical 450–500 km between charges means weeks of urban use without plugging in, or out-of-town journeys with just a brief pit stop. That aligns with what matters most on the road: predictable range and minimal planning.

The field keeps expanding. New entries such as the Kia EV3 and EV4, the Skoda Elroq, and premium contenders like the Audi A6 and Q6 e-tron made the list. Not everyone cleared the 500 km mark, though—Peugeot’s e-3008 and the Citroën ë‑C5 Aircross fell short despite carrying 73 kWh batteries.

It’s worth underlining that highway cruising can cut range by 30–50% due to aerodynamic drag. That’s why efficiency stands shoulder to shoulder with battery size. EVs are stretching their legs farther every year, but the smart choice still comes from matching real needs—not chasing the highest figure in a ranking. Easy to say, perhaps, when spec sheets shout loudest about capacity and WLTP numbers, yet the road has the final word.