Range Estimate Seems Wrong
Your car says one thing but reality says another
The range estimate on your dashboard keeps changing, or you are using more battery than expected. This is normal, and understanding why helps you plan better.
Your situation
Your car said you had 200 km of range when you left home, but after driving 50 km the estimate dropped to 120 km. Or the range keeps jumping around as you drive.
What to try first
- 1
Understand that the estimate is a prediction, not a guarantee
Your car estimates range based on recent driving patterns. If you were driving gently and then hit the highway, the estimate drops because consumption went up. It recalculates constantly.
- 2
Check what is using extra energy
Heating and air conditioning are the biggest drains after driving speed. In cold weather, cabin heating alone can reduce range by 15-25%. Highway speeds above 110 km/h also increase consumption significantly.
- 3
Use the energy consumption screen
Most EVs have a screen showing real-time and average energy consumption in kWh/100 km. Compare this to the rated efficiency in your car's spec sheet. If you are using more, speed, climate, or terrain is the cause.
More scenarios in the app
The EVcourse app walks you through more specific scenarios for this problem with visual step-by-step guides. Free for iOS and Android.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my EV range drop faster in cold weather?
Cold weather affects range in three ways. The battery holds less usable energy when cold. Cabin heating uses significant power (unlike a gas car where heat comes free from the engine). And cold air is denser, increasing aerodynamic drag. Combined, these can reduce range by 20-40% in freezing conditions.
Is the range displayed on the dashboard accurate?
It is an estimate based on recent driving. If you drive consistently in the same conditions, it becomes fairly accurate over time. After a mix of city and highway driving, the number will fluctuate. For trip planning, use 80% of the rated WLTP range as a conservative real-world estimate.
Related guides
Stuck at the charger? Open the app.
Step-by-step help for real charging problems. Free on iOS and Android.
Free to download · Available on iOS and Android