What are the Longest Range Electric Cars?

Electric range is the distance an EV can travel on a single charge. It's one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for EVs as it determines how far you can travel before needing to recharge your vehicle.

Find out more about how to top up an EV battery in our electric car charging guide.

Electric car range has improved drastically over the past decade. Every year, auto manufacturers like Tesla and Polestar raise the bar with models that set new electric car mileage records.

In general, EVs can be split into three range categories:

1. Short-range electric cars

Short-range electric cars like the Mazda MX-30 can typically cover up to 120 miles on a single charge. They’re ideal for urban commuting and shorter trips where motorists have easy access to charging infrastructure.

2. Mid-range electric cars

Mid-range EVs like the Nissan Leaf and Fiat 500 raise the bar with between 100 to 200 miles on a single charge. The extended range makes them ideal for both short trips and longer journeys.

3. Long-range electric cars

These top performers push the limits of electric range. A single charge will get you more than 200 miles of range. For example, the latest version of the Hyundai Kona Electric offers an impressive 319 miles of range. At the top end of the scale are models like the Mercedes EQS, an electric saloon with a staggering range of 452 miles – more than enough to get you from London to Edinburgh!

Think an EV could be a good fit for your lifestyle? Check out our electric car lease guide to find out more about how to get behind the wheel of best-selling models like the Nissan Leaf.

Looking for an EV with serious range capabilities. Here’s a closer look at some of the top 10 options available in the UK.

1. Mercedes-Benz EQS

Advanced technology and a spacious interior make the Mercedes EQS perfect for discerning drivers. The luxury saloon offers a huge 453 miles of electric range.

2. Tesla Model S

Tesla has always been at the forefront of the EV market and the Model S cements this status. Get almost 400 miles out of the powerful electric battery, which will take you from zero to 60mph in just 3.1 seconds. You’ll also enjoy access to one of the fastest and largest charging networks in the UK.

3. Polestar 3

If you’re looking for an electric SUV with genuine offroad capabilities, the Polestar 3 ticks all the boxes. It offers a huge 379 miles of range on a single charge and, of course, the brand’s signature Scandinavian styling.

As far as the luxury SUV market goes, the Polestar 3 holds up against models like the Audi Q8 e-tron and BMW iX. A luxurious interior featuring a panoramic glass roof, along with cutting-edge technology like an Android Automotive infotainment system and Bowers & Wilkins stereo elevate the driving experience to the next level.

4. Tesla Model 3

With an impressive range of almost 375 miles, it’s no wonder the Tesla Model 3 is one of the best-selling cars in the UK, putting it on par with petrol-powered favourites like the Vauxhall Corsa.

5. Ford Mustang Mach-E

With a maximum range of 372 miles, the Ford Mustang Mach-E sets a new standard for electric SUVs.

6. BMW i4 eDrive40

With a range of up to 365 miles, the BMW i4 eDrive40 is ideal for long journeys. Luxury styling also means it’s sleek enough to turn heads in cities like London. If you’re looking for an EV that combines performance and luxury, the BMW i4 eDrive40 delivers.

7. Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a range of up to 338 miles in the rear-drive version – a testament to Hyundai's commitment to electric innovation. The all-electric crossover is a great option for motorists seeking a balance between style, range and affordability.

8. Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 proves that high-range EVs don’t have to come with an eye-watering price tag. The model offers almost 330 miles on a single charge, making it a great addition to the EV market.

9. Audi e-tron GT quattro

Unlock more than 300 miles of range on a single charge with the Audi e-tron GT quattro. The sports-inspired performance car combines a powerful electric motor with luxury craftsmanship and advanced technology.

10.Porsche Taycan Turbo S

If it’s performance you’re after, it’s hard to look past the Porsche Taycan Turbo S. It’s the brand’s first foray into the EV market and proves that excitement and sustainability can go hand in hand. Plus, you get a huge 291 miles of EM range on a single charge.

Choosing the right electric car range for your needs is a very personal decision and depends on several factors. Consider things like:

1. The distance of your daily commute

Short-range EVs are great for quick commutes while mid and long-range models are better for longer daily drives.

2. Your long-distance travel habits

If you frequently take long journeys, an EV with a longer range can minimise stops and take you further on a single charge.

3. Access to charging infrastructure

Home chargers make it much easier to drive short-range EVs. It’s also worth checking the availability of charging stations along your regular routes. The good news? Charging infrastructure is continually improving in the UK, making it easier than ever to charge your EV.

4. Budget

Budget will often come into play when choosing an EV. Longer-range models tend to be more expensive as they have larger and more advanced batteries.

Range anxiety is a term that’s often thrown around when discussing EVs. It describes the fear of running out of electric charge before reaching your destination.

While it’s valid, huge advances in battery technology and an ever-expanding network of charging stations across the UK means range anxiety is fizzling out.

Wondering what determines EV range?

Here’s a closer look at some of the most important factors that can influence how far an EV can travel on a single charge:

• Temperature - extreme temperatures can affect the efficiency of EV batteries and reduce range
• Driving habits - aggressive driving habits, like fast acceleration and high-speed motorway cruising, can drain EV batteries at a much faster rate than normal
• Terrain - challenging terrain like steep climbs and loose gravel can place additional stress on the battery and impact electric range
• Load - carrying heavy cargo can reduce EM mileage, as the vehicle uses more battery power to propel the wheels

Now you know more about what impacts EV range, let’s take a look at how to improve performance and get the most out of your electric engine:

1. Plan your journeys - use apps or in-car navigation systems to plan your journeys and take the most efficient routes
2. Optimise your driving style - in the same way that aggressive driving can drain your battery, being proactive behind the wheel can conserve energy and optimise your range
3. Maintain proper tyre pressure - checking your tyre pressure is a quick and easy way to get the most out of every charge
4. Pre-condition the cabin - heating and air conditioning can drain your battery and affect EV range. If possible, precondition the cabin while the car is charging
5. Minimise excess weight - plain and simple, travelling lighter requires less energy. Whether it’s bulky camping gear or heavy sports equipment, removing unnecessary cargo from your EV can help boost range

WLTP stands for Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure. It’s a standardised test used to measure the real-world fuel efficiency and emissions of vehicles, as well as the battery range of EVs.

Is the advertised electric car range right?

Manufacturers use the WLTP test to calculate the advertised electric car range of models. While the figure is a good indicator of a vehicle's capabilities, it’s important to remember that factors like temperature, terrain and driving style can affect actual range.

Incredible advances in battery technology and nationwide charging infrastructure mean there’s never been a better time to make the switch to an electric car. Get in touch with Leasing Options to find out more about how auto finance can help you secure the keys to top-performing marques like Tesla and Polestar.