The WLTP range is a measured value for the range of electric cars that is determined as part of the new WLTP measurement procedure. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the WLTP range and its significance for electric mobility.
What is the WLTP range?
The WLTP range describes the maximum distance that an electric car can travel with a fully charged battery under realistic conditions. In contrast to the previous NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) measurement method, the WLTP also takes into account factors such as driving speed, acceleration and braking behavior as well as different vehicle configurations.
How is the WLTP range determined?
WLTP stands for Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure. It is a standardized measurement procedure for determining consumption and emission values for motor vehicles. The WLTP procedure is intended to provide more realistic results than the previous NEDC procedure and has been gradually being used for the registration of new vehicles in the EU since 2018.
The WLTP range is determined as part of a standardized test procedure that better reflects real driving conditions than the old NEDC procedure. The vehicle is tested on a chassis dynamometer and various driving scenarios are run through that are based on real driving conditions. The measurement is carried out under defined conditions to ensure comparability between different vehicles.
Significance for electromobility
The WLTP range is an important measured value for electromobility. It makes it possible to compare the ranges of different electric cars and obtain a realistic estimate of the actual driving distance. In addition, the WLTP range gives drivers of electric cars a reliable guide when planning longer journeys.
Factors influencing the WLTP range
The WLTP range depends on various factors. These include the battery capacity, the weight of the vehicle, the aerodynamic properties, the driving style and the use of consumers such as heating or air conditioning. It is therefore important not to rely solely on the WLTP range, but also to keep an eye on your own driving habits and individual circumstances.
How realistic is the WLTP range specification?
As with the average fuel consumption figures for combustion engines, the WLTP figures i.e. deviate from realistic values. Of course, your own driving style as well as environmental influences and consumers (air conditioning, radio) have an influence on this. Even if the WLTP range is significantly more realistic than the NEDC figures, tests have shown that the deviations are sometimes very large. This is different for every electric car, but it has been found that consumption is on average around 18% higher than the WLTP figures. This means that your electric car can realistically achieve around 85% of the range determined by the WLTP procedure.
Conclusion
The WLTP range is an important measured value for electromobility, which is determined as part of the new WLTP measurement procedure. It enables a realistic assessment of the actual driving distance of electric cars and provides drivers with a reliable guide when planning longer journeys. However, the WLTP range depends on various factors and can vary depending on individual circumstances.