The fear of sudden power outages is still one of the biggest concerns about electric cars. But how justified is the concern really? A current test by the ADAC shows: The feared situation is almost impossible – and even with zero percent battery level, electric cars can travel significantly further than expected.
Warn carefully, take precautions
The ADAC tested six current electric car models from VW ID.3 to Tesla Model Y to a complete standstill. As the ADAC report shows, all vehicles went through a similar “warning dramaturgy”: The first warning appeared when the battery charge level was 15 to 20 percent, which still meant a range of 40 to 80 kilometers. The closer the charge level fell to zero, the more urgent the warnings became – first visually, then acoustically.
The third warning level is particularly noteworthy: As soon as the remaining range reached single digits, all test vehicles noticeably reduced their performance. The car becomes sluggish and acceleration becomes sluggish – an unmistakable signal to the driver. At this point at the latest, you should leave the motorway and head for a charging station.
As the ADAC further reports, when the charge level is low, the electric cars automatically switch to economy mode and reduce both heating and air conditioning in order to maximize the range.
The hidden emergency reserve: 15 to 20 kilometers left
The most surprising test result: None of the six electric cars simply stopped at zero percent battery level. All models had a so-called emergency running reserve, which enabled an additional 15 to 20 kilometers. This “hidden reserve” works similarly to combustion engines and gives the driver crucial additional kilometers until the next charging opportunity.
However, the ADAC expressly warns against relying on this reserve. The test conditions were ideal: mild weather, flat track, new vehicles. In winter, on inclines or with old batteries, the reserve could be significantly lower or eliminated entirely.
What happens in an emergency
If the electric car actually breaks down, the ADAC recommends the following measures: The vehicle should never be rolled or towed on its own wheels, as the electric motor could generate voltage and damage the electronics. Instead, a towing service is required to take the car to the nearest charging station.
There are now also mobile charging options for absolute emergencies. Some electric cars can deliver energy to another electric vehicle via the vehicle-to-load system. However, the charging process takes 30 to 60 minutes for a range of just 5 to 10 kilometers.
Modern electric cars are technically designed in such a way that it is virtually impossible for them to suddenly break down. The extensive warning systems and the hidden emergency reserve give the driver enough time to react in time. If you take the warnings seriously and go to a charging station when the charge level is ten percent at the latest, you will never be embarrassed about needing the reserve.
Dominik Maier, editorial team at finanzen.net
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