Eight electric vehicles consistently failing to achieve their advertised maximum charging speeds, accompanied by two models that consistently meet the marketed charging speeds.
In the world of electric vehicles (EVs), charging speeds are often a hot topic. Manufacturers claim impressive peak charging rates, but how do these figures stack up against real-world performance?
Recent tests have shown that while EVs may not achieve their advertised peak charging rates consistently, some models come close.
The new Ford Capri, for instance, boasts a peak charge of 187kW. In an independent test, it managed to achieve this speed for two minutes, demonstrating that Ford's claims are indeed accurate. The Capri also maintained a charging speed of over 150kW during a 60% top-up, placing it at the top of the charging speed charts.
The Kia EV3 also performed well, reaching 94.8% of its claimed peak charging speeds. It charged from an initial 16% state-of-charge to 60% in just 27 minutes, with a charging rate of 128kW for two minutes. Although it didn't quite reach its claimed 135kW peak, it averaged 117kW during the test, which isn't too far off its claimed speeds.
The Toyota bZ4X and the VW ID.7 Tourer also impressed in the tests. The bZ4X charged at an average rate of 96kW and went from an initial 14% state-of-charge to 60% in 26 minutes. The VW ID.7 Tourer managed to charge to its claimed peak charging speed of 200kW in the test.
However, it's important to note that actual charging rates depend on various factors. The EV's charge acceptance rate, battery conditions, temperature, state of charge, and charger capability all play a role in determining the charging speed. As a result, most EVs charge significantly slower than the peak figures advertised, especially across the entire charging session.
For example, the charging process can become sluggish towards the end, as seen in the case of the bZ4X. Despite this, Auto Express commended the bZ4X for its dynamic charging strategy, which updates the charge current every few seconds to optimise the charging process.
In summary, while EV manufacturers provide maximum charging rate claims, actual rates depend on several factors. Real-world tests show that the manufacturer's marketing figures are often optimistic for everyday use, especially under varied environmental conditions. Nevertheless, the latest EVs are showing promising results in bridging the gap between advertised charging speeds and real-world performance.
- The insurance industry needs to consider the impact of electric vehicles (EVs) on their policies, as charging speeds can significantly affect lifestyle and automotive choices.
- In the finance sector, it's crucial to understand the implications of the technology powering EVs, as it could potentially alter the landscape of the transportation industry.
- As more car manufacturers launch electric-vehicle models, the influence of charging speeds on consumer decisions within the lifestyle market becomes increasingly apparent.
- Owners of electric cars, including electric-vehicle vehicles, need to be aware of the factors that influence charging speeds, such as temperature and state of charge, to ensure that they have an efficient charging experience.
