The distance an electric car can travel on a single charge, known as its driving range, varies dramatically. Most new models today offer between 200 and 400 miles of range, with a few premium models exceeding 400 miles. The official range figure, like the EPA estimate in the U.S., is a useful baseline, but real-world results depend heavily on your driving style, speed, weather, and use of accessories like air conditioning.
The single biggest factor determining range is the size of the battery, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). A larger battery can store more energy, just like a larger gas tank holds more fuel. For example, a compact EV might have a 60 kWh battery for around 250 miles of range, while a large SUV could have a 100+ kWh battery pack to achieve 350 miles or more.
However, efficiency is just as important. This is measured in miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) and indicates how effectively the car uses its stored energy. A sleek, aerodynamic sedan will be far more efficient than a boxy, heavy truck, even if they have the same size battery.
Here’s a look at the EPA-estimated ranges for some popular 2024 models to give you a realistic idea of the market spread:
| Electric Vehicle Model | EPA-Estimated Range (Miles) | Battery Size (kWh) |
|---|
| Chevrolet Bolt EV | 259 | 65 |
| Tesla Model 3 Long Range | 341 | 75 |
| Ford Mustang Mach-E AWD Extended Range | 310 | 91 |
| Hyundai Ioniq 6 Long Range RWD | 361 | 77 |
| Kia EV9 Long Range AWD | 280 | 99 |
| Tesla Model S | 405 | 100 |
| Lucid Air Grand Touring | 516 | 112 |
| Rivian R1S Dual-Motor Large Pack | 352 | 128 |
To maximize your daily range, practice smooth acceleration, use regenerative braking, and pre-condition the car's temperature while it's still plugged in. For long trips, plan your route around DC fast-charging stations, which can add significant range in 20-30 minutes.
