EV Range Deviation Revealed: Australian Tests Show Real-World Figures 5%-23% Lower than Advertised
In a recent study by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA), it was revealed that the actual driving range of some of the most popular electric vehicles (EVs) is significantly lower than the figures reported in laboratory testing. The testing, part of the AAA’s Real World Testing Program, found discrepancies between the advertised range and real-world performance ranging from 5% to 23%.
Tested vehicles included models from Tesla, BYD, Kia, and Smart, with the BYD Atto3 exhibiting the largest shortfall—23% lower than its advertised range of 480 km. The Smart #3 had the smallest difference, with only a 5% discrepancy.
Key Findings from the Real World Testing Program
- Tesla Model 3: 14% lower than the advertised range.
- Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6: 8% lower.
- BYD Atto3: 23% lower than the lab figures.
- Smart #3: Only a 5% difference, the best-performing model in the study.
These results come at a time when range anxiety—the fear of running out of battery charge while driving—is still a barrier for many considering switching to electric vehicles. However, experts argue that these discrepancies should not necessarily discourage consumers.
Understanding the Range Gap
The AAA conducted its tests using a 93km circuit, combining urban, rural, and highway roads to better simulate real-world conditions. The testing protocol adhered to European standards, providing more reliable data on how these cars actually perform in everyday driving scenarios.
Despite the range differences, Aman Gaur, Head of Legal and Policy at the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC), stressed that EVs still offer plenty of range for day-to-day driving. He pointed out that the average Australian drives just 33km per day, meaning even an EV with a 350km range could last 10 days before needing a charge.
The Impact on Consumers
While the AAA’s findings reveal the differences between lab-tested and real-world ranges, they offer reassurance to consumers looking to invest in electric vehicles. According to Michael Bradley, Managing Director at the AAA, the Real World Testing Program highlights the challenges of relying solely on laboratory tests and provides consumers with more accurate information on battery performance.
It’s important to note that environmental factors—such as traffic flow, weather conditions, and the weight of passengers and luggage—can contribute to the variation in range performance.
Looking Ahead: EV Adoption in Australia
Despite the range discrepancies, the rise in electric vehicle adoption in Australia is undeniable. Battery and plug-in hybrid cars made up 12% of new car sales in the first half of 2025, reflecting a growing demand for eco-friendly transportation. The EV industry is steadily evolving, and manufacturers are expected to make continuous improvements in battery efficiency and charging infrastructure to further encourage sustainability.
As EVs become a more integral part of the global automotive market, the data gathered by the AAA serves as an important resource in helping consumers make informed decisions about the future of their driving experiences.
In summary, real-world testing reveals that while electric vehicles might not meet their advertised ranges, they still offer sufficient performance for everyday use, helping to ease range anxiety and making EVs a more attractive option for environmentally conscious drivers.