Top 5 Electric Cars with the Longest Ranges

The optimal range for your electric vehicle on a single charge hinges on your driving preferences. Short daily commutes may be fine with a modest range, but frequent long trips or limited charging stations necessitate a car with extended range. A greater range offers reassurance and the freedom for impromptu adventures without battery concerns or range anxiety. Make sure to choose the vehicle that aligns with your lifestyle and driving needs.

Factors affecting electric vehicle driving range

There are a few things that can impact how far an electric car can go on a full charge:

1. Battery capacity: The size of the battery in the car plays a big role. A bigger battery can hold more energy, so you can drive farther.

2. Efficiency: How efficiently the car uses the energy in a battery matters. Things like weight, how the car is designed, and how the power is managed all make a difference.

3. Driving conditions: How you drive and where you drive also affect the range. Going fast, driving uphill, or using air conditioning can use up more energy.

4. Weather: Hot or cold weather can affect how far the car can go. Extreme temperatures make the battery work harder.

5. Charging: If you only have access to slow chargers, you may not have time to reach a maximum charge, which can limit your range, whereas with EV chargers like Lectron's, you can charge your EV battery in an optimal way

6. Maintenance: Keeping your car in good shape, like making sure the tires are properly inflated, can help improve range.

All these things together determine how many miles an electric car can go before needing a charge.

Which electric vehicle has the longest range?

Here are longest-range electric vehicles that are currently available:

Lucid Air

Image courtesy of Lucid Motors

Starting price: $82,400

EPA-estimated range: 516 miles (Grand Touring)

The electric vehicle driving range champion hails from Lucid Motors, a California-based automaker pushing the boundaries of electric car technology. The flagship model, the Lucid Air sedan, has soared to new heights by claiming the title of having the highest EPA-estimated range among all electric cars available today.

The Lucid Air Grand Touring is the longest-range model across the lineup, featuring 19-inch wheels and boasting an EPA-estimated range of 516 miles. In comparison, the Touring model features 425 miles of range, while the base model, Pure, has an EPA-estimated range of 410 miles. To put it into perspective, the Grand Touring's impressive range outpaces that of many luxury vehicles powered by traditional gasoline engines, such as the Lexus UX, which registers 445 miles of maximum range.

Tesla Model S

Image courtesy of Tesla

Starting price: $88,490

EPA-estimated range: 405 miles

EV industry pioneers, Tesla, offer the Model S with an impressive driving range of 396 miles and a top speed of 140 mph. Known for its acceleration, autonomous capabilities, and extensive Supercharger network, the Model S remains a favorite among EV enthusiasts.

The Tesla Model S has two variants: the Model S, which boasts a dual motor all-wheel drive powertrain, registering an estimated 405 miles of range, and the Model S Plaid, which features three electric motors and has an EPA-estimated range of 396 miles.

Beyond its impressive range, the Model S is renowned for its acceleration. The instant torque characteristic of electric vehicles gives the Model S a lightning-quick burst of speed, propelling it from zero to sixty in a mere blink. It comes equipped with Tesla's Autopilot system, which takes steps towards self-driving technology. While not fully autonomous, the Model S can handle certain driving tasks, making highway driving safer and more convenient.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Image courtesy of Steel South Loop Hyundai

Starting price: $46,615

EPA-estimated range: 361 miles

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a midsize sedan offering a driving range of 365 miles. It sports a sleeker, more aerodynamic, and elegant swept-back silhouette than its predecessor, the Ioniq 5. It comes in four variants: the SE Standard Range, the SE Long Range, the SEL, and the Limited.

The SE features a rear-wheel-drive, single-motor configuration, with a choice of two battery packs. The Long Range model with the bigger battery pack registers a maximum range of 361 miles. Meanwhile, the SEL and Limited trim levels only come with the bigger battery pack, and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup is optional. The all-wheel-drive Ioniq 6 Limited registers 270 miles of range, while the RWD Long Range and AWD Long Range come in at 260 and 220 miles, respectively.

The Hyundai SUV also includes numerous standard advanced driving features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.

Mercedes Benz EQS Sedan

Image courtesy of Car and Driver

Starting price: $105,550

EPA-estimated range: 350 miles

The Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan serves as the flagship electric car for the German automaker, boasting impressive technology and luxurious interior features. It's distinct from the EQS SUV and is available in three versions:

• EQS450+ (rear-wheel drive)

• EQS450 4Matic (all-wheel drive)

• EQS580 4Matic (all-wheel drive)

There's also a more powerful AMG version, although the range differences are minimal. The EQS450+ with 329 horsepower offers the best range, estimated at 350 miles by the EPA. Despite the EQS580 4Matic's 516 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive, it still manages a respectable 340 miles of range.

The interior is spacious and luxurious, with options like massage seats and advanced infotainment. The EQS features an electric motor and battery with 107.8 kWh capacity. The EQS580 has dual motors for all-wheel drive, producing 516 horsepower, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. In comparison, the EQS450+ takes 5.4 seconds to reach 60 mph.

Standard driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.

Tesla Model X

Image courtesy of Cars Guide

Starting price: $101,630

EPA-estimated range: 348 miles

Equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain, the Model X delivers astounding acceleration and precise handling. This advanced system ensures power is seamlessly distributed to all wheels, resulting in a driving experience that's both exhilarating and controlled.

Like the Tesla Model 3, the Model X boasts an innovative autopilot system that enhances safety and convenience by assisting with certain driving tasks. It features Tesla's signature minimalist design philosophy with a panoramic windshield and the unique Falcon Wing rear doors.

The Model X comes in two all-wheel drive variants: the dual motor standard Model X with 348 miles of range, and the tri-motor Model X Plaid with 333 miles of range.

Range vs. efficiency

While range is all the rage for prospective EV buyers, knowing about EV efficiency is crucial for understanding their performance and practicality. Range refers to the distance an EV can travel on a single charge, which directly impacts how far you can drive before needing to recharge. Efficiency, on the other hand, relates to how effectively an EV converts stored energy (usually measured in kilowatt-hours, or kWh) from the battery into actual miles driven.

A more efficient EV can cover a longer distance using less energy, contributing to cost savings and reduced environmental impact. Balancing both range and efficiency is essential for maximizing the benefits of electric mobility while addressing the limitations of battery capacity and charging infrastructure.

FAQs

• What is the current longest-range electric car?

  The title of the longest-range electric car is currently held by the Lucid Air Grand Touring, with an impressive EPA-estimated range of 516 miles.

• Will electric cars ever get to the 1000-mile range?

  While electric vehicle technology continues to advance rapidly, achieving a 1000-mile range on a single charge presents significant challenges. Factors such as battery technology, weight, and energy efficiency play crucial roles. While it's difficult to predict the future with absolute certainty, automakers are making steady progress, so we may eventually see electric cars with even longer ranges.

• What 2023 electric SUV has a 300-mile range?

  The Tesla Model X is the longest-range electric SUV among 2023 models, registering an impressive 348 miles of range on a single battery charge.

• How can I maximize the driving range of my EV?

  Maximize your electric vehicle's range by adopting smooth driving, regenerative braking, and efficient speeds. Precondition the interior while charging, minimize energy-intensive accessories, and plan routes wisely. Optimize climate control, utilize scheduled charging, and follow maintenance recommendations to extend battery life and promote a sustainable driving experience.

• How many miles can an electric car go on a full charge?

  The range of an electric car on a full charge varies depending on the make and model. In recent advancements, electric vehicles can typically achieve ranges ranging from around 200 to over 500 miles on a single charge. Factors such as battery capacity, driving conditions, and driving habits can influence the actual range achieved.