The latest results from the renowned Norwegian Automobile Federation (NAF) and Motor magazine's El Prix winter range test have been released. In a surprising outcome, the Polestar 3 claimed victory, achieving the second-best winter range result ever recorded.
Previously a consistent frontrunner, Tesla entered the competition with its Model 3 LR RWD, boasting a WLTP range of 436 miles. However, it fell 25% short of this rating under winter conditions.
In contrast, the Polestar 3 exceeded expectations by covering an impressive 330 miles in challenging winter weather, reflecting a mere 5.18% deviation from its WLTP range of 349 miles.
The test saw some drama during result calculations. The Tesla Model 3 stopped after traveling 341 miles, initially thought to be the clear winner. However, when the Polestar 3 stopped just 984 feet ahead, having covered 330 miles, a verification revealed that the Tesla Model 3's odometer added about 2.9 miles per every 62 miles traveled. Adjusting for this nearly 5% error, the Polestar 3 narrowly took the win.
With Polestar and Tesla nearly tied, Porsche Taycan claimed third place after covering 310 miles, approximately 15% less than its stated WLTP range.
The bi-annual El Prix range test in Norway assesses real-world electric vehicle ranges against official WLTP figures, with the winter edition presenting especially harsh conditions including slippery roads and a climb of about 3,280 ft.
Despite these challenges, the Polestar 3 delivered outstanding performance. Polestar CEO Michael Lohscheller expressed pride in this achievement, emphasizing the importance of range for customers and positioning the Polestar 3 as an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious, high-performance SUV.
The poorest performer was the Peugeot E-3008, which ran out of charge after just 216 miles, falling 101 miles short of its claimed WLTP range. The Voyah Dream recorded the lowest overall range at 214 miles, covering only 71% of its advertised range. The Peugeot E-5008 also underperformed, achieving 224 miles, nearly 79 miles below its claimed range. Two Peugeot models occupying the bottom ranks reflects poorly on the French brand.
This 12th edition of the range test highlights the evolving electric vehicle market, with manufacturers continuously pushing range and performance boundaries. Polestar 3's victory sets a new standard for electric SUVs in demanding winter conditions. Below are the full test results:
| Vehicle | Actual Range | WLTP Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Polestar 3 | 330 miles | -5% |
| Tesla Model 3 | 330 miles | -24% |
| Porsche Taycan | 310 miles | -16% |
| BYD Tang | 299 miles | -9% |
| Audi Q6 e-tron | 299 miles | -22% |
| Hongqi EHS7 | 281 miles | -16% |
| VW ID.7 GTX Tourer | 273 miles | -23% |
| Ford Explorer | 272 miles | -17% |
| BYD Sealion 7 | 271 miles | -13% |
| Lotus Emeya | 271 miles | -13% |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 271 miles | -20% |
| XPeng G6 | 267 miles | -22% |
| Porsche Macan | 267 miles | -22% |
| BYD Seal U | 262 miles | -16% |
| Nio EL8 | 256 miles | -18% |
| BMW i5 Touring | 244 miles | -21% |
| Mercedes G580 | 237 miles | -14% |
| Volvo EX30 | 231 miles | -21% |
| Peugeot E-5008 | 224 miles | -26% |
| Mini Countryman | 221 miles | -11% |
| Peugeot E-3008 | 216 miles | -32% |
| Smart #3 | 215 miles | -17% |
| Voyah Dream | 214 miles | -29% |
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