Range is a crucial factor for anyone considering an electric vehicle (EV). It refers to the distance an EV can travel on a full charge. Just like gasoline cars, several factors influence the efficiency and energy consumption of EVs, impacting their range. These include ambient temperature, driving conditions, and individual driving habits. Electric cars achieve optimal efficiency in warm weather, on flat or downhill terrains, and when regenerative braking effectively recharges the battery. Therefore, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a single “range” figure as an estimate under specific, controlled test conditions. Short-term fluctuations in range often result from external elements, whereas long-term range reduction typically indicates battery degradation due to age and usage.
To delve deeper, explore how temperature affects EV range.
Real-World e-Golf Range Data
The Volkswagen e-Golf, available since 2015, offers valuable insights into long-term range performance and battery degradation. With six years of real-world data, we can analyze trends, although our Recurrent research community has a limited number of e-Golfs, making some findings preliminary and requiring further data.
Our data tracks the maximum achievable range at a 100% charge for e-Golf vehicles across various locations and conditions. We’ve observed maximum ranges varying significantly, from as low as 40 miles to as high as 195 miles. Naturally, older e-Golf models, with lower original range estimates, generally exhibit lower current ranges due to battery capacity decline over time and with use. First-generation e-Golfs (2015-2016) typically show used ranges between 40 and 116 miles. Second-generation models (2017 onwards) generally achieve used ranges from 102 to 195 miles.
e-Golf Efficiency: MPGe and Miles per kWh
Vehicle efficiency, measured by energy consumption per distance, is commonly expressed in MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) and miles per kWh (kilowatt-hour). These metrics are often found on new car stickers and dealer listings. The e-Golf boasts an EPA rating of 116 MPGe for 2015-16 models and 119 MPGe for 2017 and newer versions. In terms of miles per kWh, this translates to 3.45 or 3.57 miles per kWh, respectively. These figures demonstrate the e-Golf’s competitive efficiency. Despite its relatively small battery capacity, it effectively maximizes the use of available kWh.
For a broader perspective, learn more about vehicle efficiency.
e-Golf Charging Experience
Based on feedback from our community of e-Golf drivers, the Charging Score for the e-Golf is 4.12 out of 5, indicating general satisfaction with the charging experience. While the e-Golf’s battery is smaller compared to many EVs, charging times can vary. Using a standard 110V household plug, it gains approximately 4 miles of range per hour, translating to around 20 hours for a full charge for older models and nearly 37 hours for newer ones. A Level 2 charger significantly reduces charging time to about 4-7 hours, depending on battery size and onboard charger speed. For quicker charging, especially for those prioritizing charge time, opting for an e-Golf equipped with the 7.2 kW charger is advisable. Most e-Golf models are compatible with DC fast charging, capable of replenishing the battery from empty to 80% in roughly 30 minutes with a maximum charge rate of 50 kW.
In conclusion, understanding the factors influencing E Golf Range, efficiency, and charging is essential for e-Golf owners and potential buyers. Real-world data highlights the variability of e golf range based on model year and conditions, while its efficiency and charging capabilities contribute to a satisfactory ownership experience.
