The developments in EV battery technology are accelerating even more quickly than the cars they’re fitted to. Ever more powerful and efficient cells are allowing manufacturers to deliver huge performance gains.
More crucially for real world use, though, these acceleration upticks have resulted in ever-increased ranges. Even some of the smallest electric superminis can crack 200 miles between charges now, helping to banish the dreaded range anxiety from the minds of buyers. Yet there are cars that will go further still. Much further. Here we round up to the top 11 cars that boast the longest ranges and are currently on sale in the UK (that means no Lucid Air or BMW i7 for now), while all the figures quoted are the latest WLTP calculations.
10= Tesla Model Y
Designed to be an even bigger sales hit than the Tesla Model 3, the Model Y crams much of its saloon sibling’s mechanicals into a more fashionable SUV body. In fairness it has more MPV than mud-plugger, but the raised ride height and roomy cabin make it easy to drive and painless to live with. As you’d expect there’s a Performance model that packs 483bhp and a face-stretching 0-62mph time of 3.5 seconds, but even the standard car needs only 4.8 seconds and combines this with a handy 331 miles range. It’s capable and composed to drive rather than fun, but with its tech-laden interior, family-friendly approach and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, the Model Y oozes showroom appeal.
10= Skoda Enyaq iV
Based on VW’s adaptable MEB EV architecture, the Enyaq iV is set to be one of the most sought after models of 2021. Mixing fashionable SUV style with typical Skoda practicality (there’s a cavernous 585-litre boot) and a typically attractive price tag, the Czech machine ticks all the right boxes for families looking to go electric. Crucially, when equipped with the larger 80kWh battery (there’s also a 60kWh option) the 201bhp Enyaq iV claims an impressive 331 miles between charges.
9. Polestar 2
Bankrolled by Chinese giant Geely and designed with Volvo knowhow, the Polestar 2 is an impressive first effort from the Swedish EV pioneer. Mixing rugged SUV styling cues with a dash of eau de coupe, the 2 is also great to drive. Range topping versions feature twin electric motors for 402bhp and 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds, while its 78kWh battery allows for a 292 mile range. Using the same powerful cells, the 228bhp front-wheel drive Long Range Single Motor model will stretch its energy to a WLTP-approved 335 miles.
8. Tesla Model X
With its large 100kWh battery it’s hardly surprising the distinctive gull-winged Model X can go further than most between charges - that and the fact it’s badged a Long Range Plus. In fact, given the vast size of the cells and the name, you might say the claimed 348 miles between charges is actually a bit of a disappointment. And then you realise the Model X is four-wheel drive, can carry seven adults and can sprint to 62mph in 4.4 seconds. Pay a little more and sacrifice 8 miles of range, and the Performance version will demolish the acceleration benchmark in 2.6 seconds.
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