FEMI OWOEYE
One of the biggest assumptions about electric vehicles has been turned on its head after independent vehicle assessment organisation Green NCAP revealed that the biggest battery does not necessarily make the best long-distance holiday car.
In a comprehensive study designed to simulate a real family summer road trip, the Mercedes-Benz CLA EQ 250+ emerged as the best-performing electric vehicle, beating larger and more expensive electric SUVs through superior energy efficiency, longer usable range and remarkably shorter charging time.
The findings come as millions of European families prepare for their annual summer holidays, with increasing numbers opting for electric vehicles for long-distance travel.
Green NCAP analysed an 800-kilometre journey combining motorway, rural and urban roads, with every vehicle carrying four occupants, luggage and operating air conditioning throughout the trip to reflect real-life holiday driving conditions.
The organisation said the results demonstrate that vehicle efficiency, rather than battery size alone, determines how quickly and conveniently drivers reach their destinations.
According to the report, the Mercedes-Benz CLA EQ 250+ recorded the lowest energy consumption of all electric vehicles tested at 16.5 kWh per 100 kilometres and delivered an estimated 605-kilometre driving range on a single charge.
Perhaps more impressively, Green NCAP calculated that the vehicle would require only about 14 minutes of fast charging to complete the simulated 800-kilometre journey, while its charging system is capable of averaging 286 kW, allowing the battery to recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in less than 23 minutes.
The Mercedes also earned Green NCAP’s highest five-star Sustainability Rating, making it the overall winner in the organisation’s family road-trip assessment.
The study also exposed the limitations of some larger electric SUVs.
Green NCAP found that vehicles such as the Kia EV9, BYD Sealion 7 and Cadillac Optiq consumed considerably more energy because of their greater weight, larger dimensions, aerodynamic drag and wider tyres, all of which increase rolling resistance.
The report concludes that fitting a larger battery to a heavier vehicle does not automatically translate into a better long-distance driving experience.
Among compact electric cars, the Renault 5 E-Tech received top honours after achieving a five-star sustainability rating. Although its smaller battery requires longer charging stops, Green NCAP described it as an efficient and practical option for families willing to incorporate additional breaks into their journeys.
For couples and city travellers, the MINI Cooper E emerged as one of the most energy-efficient vehicles assessed, although its relatively small battery limits its suitability for longer family trips.
The Volvo EX30 was recognised as the best practical compact electric crossover, combining generous interior space with respectable driving range and manageable charging requirements.
Hybrid vehicles also featured strongly in the assessment.
The Toyota C-HR Hybrid was named the most fuel-efficient hybrid after recording fuel consumption of 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres, giving it a touring range of approximately 754 kilometres before refuelling.
For larger families, the Dacia Bigster Hybrid impressed Green NCAP with an estimated touring range of 847 kilometres, enabling it to complete the simulated journey without requiring a fuel stop.
Among conventional petrol-powered vehicles, the SEAT Ibiza emerged as the leading performer, returning 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres while carrying four passengers and luggage with the air conditioning operating.
Commenting on the findings, Dr. Aleksandar Damyanov, Technical Manager of Green NCAP, said motorists should look beyond headline battery capacity or fuel tank size when choosing a vehicle for long-distance travel.
“Our analysis shows that choosing the car with the biggest battery or fuel tank does not necessarily guarantee the easiest journey,” he said.
“Efficiency, usable range and the amount of time spent charging can make a significant difference during a long trip.
“Green NCAP’s independent and in-depth testing enables consumers to compare cars using trusted and consistent results rather than relying solely on manufacturer claims.”
Green NCAP, an independent vehicle assessment programme associated with Euro NCAP and supported by European governments, consumer organisations, universities and mobility clubs, said its testing evaluates vehicles under controlled but realistic driving conditions, including the additional demands created by passengers, luggage, varying road types and climate control.
The organisation believes the findings will help motorists make better-informed purchasing decisions as electric mobility continues to expand across Europe and other global markets.
