By Anthony Henson, October 9, 2024
The automotive media is united in its enthusiasm for the updated entry-level Tesla Model 3 RWD. According to Tesla’s press release, the Model 3 RWD can now exceed 436 miles on a single charge. But how accurate is this claim? We know Tesla engineers some of the most efficient EVs on the market. However, marketing is marketing.
No matter how much marketing departments rely on software-enabled data tracking, consumer surveys, and questionnaires to promote electric vehicle (EV) performance and range, marketing campaigns will always promote what could be called “honest lies.”
Fortunately, debunking these claims is fairly easy—no expertise required. In fact, you don’t even have to be a journalist. All you need is a bit of common sense, combined with some simple analytics and basic math.
WLTP – Fact or Fiction?
Electric car range is determined by the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure). The WLTP involves so-called real-world testing, including extended range assessments, higher-than-average maximum speeds, and harsh acceleration. Sounds very technical, right?
However, we know from numerous online sources—ranging from technical reviews and personal experiences to social media—that most electric vehicles (EVs), using current battery technology and EV powertrain systems, typically achieve about 25% less than their stated range. This suggests that the WLTP is akin to regulatory gaslighting.
Automakers skilfully use WLTP range tests to bolster their marketing campaigns, presenting them as trustworthy independent assessments. But with some basic math, we can estimate that the updated Tesla Model 3 RWD is unlikely to achieve the claimed 436-mile range. In reality, it’s closer to about 327 miles in real-world driving conditions.
My calculations are based on the worst-case scenario: a 25% reduction from the stated range. It could be a few percentage points less. However, you also have to consider real-world factors such as weather, terrain, driving habits, and the balance between urban and highway driving.
Don’t Believe The Hype
That said, Tesla uses a relatively small battery for the Model 3 RWD—just 57 kWh—compared to a rival like the Polestar 2, which features a 69 kWh battery pack. This highlights the superior efficiency of the Tesla Model 3, making it one of the most energy-efficient electric vehicles (EVs) on the market.
My calculations are certainly not technical by nature and are based on basic research, drawing from personal experience driving the new Tesla Model 3 and other electric cars, as well as multiple data sources and real-world reviews, including both long-form articles and video reviews.
The key takeaway is: don’t believe the hype, never fully trust WLTP stats and never, ever trust the honest lies perpetuated by automotive marketing and PR campaigns. Heck why should you even believe this article?
The bottom line is, this article was written as a pushback against marketing claims—it’s not that difficult to conduct your own research on electric vehicle range. At the end of the day, trust your instincts when evaluating real-world EV performance versus WLTP ratings.
