Tesla has lowered the estimated range it advertises for many of its cars. The move comes after a Reuters report revealed software within some Tesla vehicles designed to exaggerate their remaining range.
But it may simply be a response to changing government range test rules.
Electrek explains, “The Model Y Long Range is down to 310 miles from 330, and the Model Y Performance is down to 285 miles from 303.” The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model, introduced after Reuters’ report, does not appear to have a new range estimate.
Autoblog notes that some Model S and Model X trims saw their range estimates drop as well. Predicted ranges for the Model 3 appear unchanged, and the Model S Long Range saw a slight increase.
New Range Figures:
| Model | New Range Estimate | Change |
| Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive, 18-inch wheels | 272 miles | None |
| Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive, 19-inch wheels | 248 miles | None |
| Model 3 Long Range, 18-inch wheels | 341 miles | None |
| Model 3 Long Range, 19-inch wheels | 305 miles | None |
| Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive, 18-inch wheels | 260 miles | None |
| Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive, 19-inch wheels | 242 miles | None |
| Model Y Long Range, 19-inch wheels | 310 miles | -20 |
| Model Y Long Range, 20-inch wheels | 292 miles | -27 |
| Model Y Performance | 285 miles | -17 |
| Model S Long Range, 19-inch wheels Model S Long Range, 21-inch wheels | 405 miles 382 miles | None +7 |
| Model S Plaid, 19-inch wheels | 359 miles | -37 |
| Model S Plaid, 21-inch wheels | 320 miles | -28 |
| Model X Long Range, 20-inch wheels | 335 miles | -13 |
| Model X Long Range, 22-inch wheels | 322 miles | -8 |
| Model X Plaid, 20-inch wheels | 326 miles | -7 |
| Model X Plaid, 22-inch wheels | 300 miles | -11 |
What Reuters Alleged
The Reuters report alleged some Tesla cars use two separate algorithms to estimate range. One, used when the battery charge is over 50%, projects an unrealistically optimistic estimate that excludes factors like temperature. The other, used when the battery falls below 50% of charge, includes temperature and other factors and presents a more realistic number.
Tesla trained a team of call center operators to discourage customers from making range complaints, Reuters reported, and paid them bonuses based on the number of customers they diverted from service appointments.
New Testing Standards
Reuters also reports the changes may be a response to changes in how the Environmental Protection Agency tests EV range.
“The new rules require automakers to test EVs for driving range and fuel efficiency in their ‘default’ driving mode — the one the car uses when a driver first turns it on,” Reuters explains. Tesla cars have many modes, and the company may have advertised ranges from more efficient modes in the past.
We may learn more if other automakers announce range adjustments after the rule changes. A Ford spokesperson said the company “has not adjusted range estimates” in response to the rule change. Other automakers have not responded to the question. Tesla does not operate a public relations department to answer reporters’ questions.
Range Is Always Less Exact Than Advertised
The controversy may matter less than the reports imply. EV makers compete to offer high estimated ranges. But range estimates are always imprecise in everyday life.
Regardless of its power source, every car sees its range change with different ambient temperatures, driving conditions, and even changes to your driving style. That’s more of an issue with EVs because recharging is more complicated than gassing up a gas-powered car. But virtually no EV in the real world achieves ranges close to advertised estimates.
