Impact of Speed on EV Range
Speed significantly affects an electric car's range, with high-speed highway driving leading to a substantial decrease in range.
According to observations from the Eurocharge 2025 EV road trip, driving at constant high speeds, such as 80 mph (130 km/h), resulted in a 40% loss of range for all eight EVs in the group.
In contrast, driving on national roads with lower speed limits, typically 56 mph (90 km/h) or lower, allowed the EVs to come close to their WLTP range and efficiency numbers.
Slow down, and you might actually achieve your EV’s official claim. Practice right foot restraint, and you may even exceed it.
Low-speed driving can even lead to exceeding the manufacturer's range claim.
Author's summary: Speed affects EV range significantly.