Reach is relative
Many doubters of e-mobility criticize the lack of range of electric vehicles. However, specifying the ranges according to the WLPT standard (Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure), a uniform test cycle for determining pollutant emissions, fuel/power consumption and ranges, is relative. The ranges determined here are determined under “clinical conditions”: at 14 to 23 degrees Celsius in a hall, without air conditioning and only one driver and 15% payload over a distance of 23 km.
Real everyday conditions look different. A decisive factor, for example, is the outside temperature. This means that e-vehicles achieve different ranges in summer than in winter. Tire size, tire pressure, road surface, route profile, etc. have further influence on the range. Last but not least, the driving style is also crucial. From a speed of more than 120 km/h, the kW/h consumption increases disproportionately and the range decreases rapidly.
The route profile is also crucial. The range decreases relatively constantly on a straight level. Energy consumption increases on inclines. However, this also decreases when driving downhill. In addition, the electric vehicle recuperates, which means that ranges below WLTP consumption can even be achieved in the mountains.
The vehicles often offer different driving modes to make their use of electricity more efficient. The degree of recuperation can be individually adjusted here.
What is recuperation?
When driving an electric vehicle, it is noticeable that releasing the accelerator not only results in a natural slowing down, but also creates a braking effect. This means the vehicle comes to a stop more quickly. The motor converts the kinetic energy into electricity. Recuperation is the recovery of energy, which is then immediately available as driving force and thus extends the range.
One-pedal driving – the new way of relaxed driving
Ideally, it is hardly necessary to operate the brakes on an electric vehicle. Pressing the accelerator pedal in an electric car not only determines the speed, but also releasing it. The manufacturer defines the extent to which the speed is controlled using one-pedal driving. Nissan was the first major brand to set the deceleration and recuperation performance at the push of a button to such an extent that lifting the accelerator pedal corresponds to a gentle to moderately forceful step on the brake. After getting used to it, drivers often find “driving with one pedal” very pleasant. A brake pedal can therefore “remain left”. It is only used for particularly severe deceleration or in an emergency. A positive side effect: brake discs and pads are subjected to less stress. This means they last significantly longer.
Recuperation or sailing?
Sailing is an equally energy-saving driving style that is often used by electric car drivers. Here Recuperation is largely deactivated and operated very proactively. The accelerator pedal is only pressed when necessary; the driver refrains from braking where the situation allows it. The vehicle simply rolls - it almost sails over the road and uses the physical forces of the existing speed and mass. Under ideal conditions, the e-car is in the slipstream of another vehicle, e.g. B. a truck on the highway. With this very efficient driving style, you can experience several additional kilometers of range.