A recent AAA study, released on June 13th, highlights the impact of heavy cargo on electric vehicles. Shockingly, even an electric pickup truck can lose up to 25% of its range when carrying a payload just shy of its maximum capacity. This crucial insight shows just how important it is to consider the weight of your cargo when planning an electric vehicle journey.
“Range anxiety remains a top reason consumers are hesitant to switch from gasoline-powered vehicles to EVs,” Adrienne Woodland, a AAA spokeswoman, said in a statement. “While this study may heighten concerns, it’s worth remembering that excess weight reduces fuel economy in gas-powered vehicles too.”
The auto club conducted the study on Ford Motor Co.’s popular F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck by driving it with a 1,400-pound load of sandbags, which is 110 pounds below the truck’s maximum capacity.
The results showed that the vehicle’s range significantly decreased by 24.5% from 278 miles to 210 miles. The test took place on a 7.5-mile oval test track and a dynamometer at The Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center in Los Angeles.
The study confirms the logic that any extra weight in a vehicle requires more energy to move. Ford has sold out its entry-level Pro model for the 2023 model year and is on track to produce 150,000 units. We reached out to Ford for comment on the study’s findings.
“Our testing revealed a significant range reduction, but it’s important to note that the Lightning was loaded to near its maximum capacity,” Greg Brannon, director of AAA Automotive Engineering, the auto club’s division that conducted the study, said in a statement. “Most buyers will likely use their Lightning with a lighter load, resulting in a much smaller range reduction.”
Electric vehicles may experience reduced range due to highway driving and permanent loads like equipment racks, according to AAA. Taking advantage of energy-capturing technology during braking is not as viable while driving at high speeds. This means drivers should take into consideration these factors when planning long trips.
However, despite these findings, AAA stated electric vehicles remain a reliable transportation choice for many motorists.
“For buyers concerned about range, it’s essential to consider the driving they will be doing and choose the right EV for their needs,” Woodland said.
Source: Transport Topics
