VW ID.7's Range Feat: Impressive, But What Does It Really Mean?

Volkswagen recently showcased the impressive range capability of the ID.7, achieving 584.7 miles on a single charge. This feat, accomplished under controlled conditions in Nardò, Italy, surpasses the ID.7's WLTP rating, yet raises questions about its real-world implications.

Electric Sedan Overview

- Model: VW ID.7
- Battery Options:
- 86-kWh: Tested for extended range
- 77-kWh: Offers a standard WLTP range of 385.8 miles
- Status:
- Available in Europe since 2023
- US launch pending, following models like ID.4 and ID. Buzz

Record-Setting Drive

Test Conditions

- Location: Low Speed Ring, Nardò, Italy
- Duration: 33 hours and 15 minutes
- Average Speed: 18 mph (29 km/h)
- Temperature Range: 41–59°F
- Mileage: Achieved 941 km (584.7 miles), 32.7% above WLTP rating

Efficiency Achieved

- Energy Consumption: 9.2 kWh/100 km
- Vehicle Specification: Single-motor, rear-wheel-drive ID.7 Pro S

What's the Catch?

Contrived Conditions

The exercise involved minimal external variables, optimizing conditions unlikely to mimic daily driving:

- Low, constant speed corresponding to rush hour traffic
- No stop-and-go scenarios or external disruptions

Questionable Real-World Relevance

Normal driving conditions involve variable speeds and frequent stops, factors that differ significantly from those in this idealized run. More dynamic driving conditions would likely yield different outcomes:

- Higher Average Speeds: Increased energy consumption, reduced range
- Urban and Highway Driving: Possibilities of traffic and stoplights

Implications for EV Users

The ID.7's test may reinforce typical hypermiling strategies prevalent among EV enthusiasts:

- Drive slower to conserve energy
- Favor back roads over highways for longer range

Market Context

Volkswagen aimed to position the ID.7 against rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and new players, including Chinese brands. With the US debut uncertain, VW faces a growing and competitive landscape eager for innovation.

Conclusion

The VW ID.7's range record showcases its hypermile potential but highlights the gap between stringent testing conditions and everyday driving. Volkswagen seems committed to efficiency, hoping the ID.7's performance appeals to a discerning electric vehicle audience when it finally reaches US markets.