Electric vehicles offer numerous advantages, but one factor consistently stands out when consumers weigh their options: range. Forget horsepower, torque, or even trunk space; the distance an EV can travel on a single charge often dictates the purchase decision. As technology advances, the distances these vehicles can cover are constantly increasing. This article highlights the electric vehicles with the greatest range in their class.
Subcompact
The subcompact segment saw some of the earliest mass-produced electric cars. Vehicles like the Mitsubishi i-Miev were limited to city driving, quickly depleting their batteries. Today, options have significantly improved: A range of around 400 kilometers (approximately 249 miles) is now the benchmark for the smallest cars. Several Stellantis electric models, featuring a 115 kW drive system and a 54-kWh battery, meet this standard. However, in this class, the Renault R5 E-Tech takes the lead within Germany, with a WLTP range of 410 kilometers (approximately 255 miles). This French model’s efficiency is notable as it achieves its range with only a 52 kWh battery, which is less than some of its competitors. This impressive range comes at a price, however; the R5 E-Tech starts at around 33,000 euros (approximately $35,244 USD).
Compact Class
The compact electric vehicle market offers wide range options. The VW e-Golf, introduced between 2017 and 2020, managed about 200 kilometers (approximately 124 miles) on a good day. Its successor, the VW ID.3, is a long-distance champion, with numerous variants featuring different battery sizes and ranges available in the series. The VW ID.3 GTX, with 210 kW and an 86 kWh high-voltage battery, offers impressive performance and a range of 606 kilometers (approximately 377 miles). It can recharge quickly, but it comes with a price tag of around 47,000 euros (approximately $50,196 USD). The Kia EV3 with an 81 kWh battery is close behind with a 605-kilometer (approximately 376-mile) WLTP range and a cost of approximately 41,000 euros (approximately $43,788 USD).
Crossover Coupe
For those seeking something larger, the mid-size crossover coupe class is a popular option with buyers. A coupelike rear design adds appeal. The model with the longest range in this segment is the Ford Capri, newly released and produced in Cologne. It boasts a range of 627 kilometers (approximately 390 miles) with an 82 kWh battery. Buyers can expect to pay around 52,000 euros (approximately $55,536 USD) to get behind the wheel of this model.
Large SUVs
In the large SUV category, which includes seven-seaters, the range continues to extend. The Peugeot E-5008 is at the top of the range in this class. While the seven seats are somewhat questionable, as the rear seats are really only suitable for children, the E-5008 boasts a generous range of 664 kilometers (approximately 413 miles) and has a 97 kWh battery. This generously equipped 2.3-ton vehicle is powered by a 170 kW single motor and will cost about 55,000 euros (approximately $58,740 USD).
Luxury Sedans
At the pinnacle of electric vehicle range sits the luxury sedan class. A luxury option is the Lucid Air, which has been available in Germany for over two years. The Grand Touring version, with opulent features, can travel 960 kilometers (approximately 597 miles) on a single charge, thanks to its 117 kWh battery. This vehicle costs at least 130,000 euros (approximately $138,840 USD), showcasing the potential for long-distance travel in the electric vehicle market. Following a considerable distance behind the Lucid Air is Mercedes EQS, also positioned in the upper class, with up to 821 kilometers (approximately 510 miles).
