The Electric cars failing to meet distance ads claim to meet
One popular SUV performed particularly poorly, stopping short of its advertised range by more than 100km.
The Australian Automobile Association released the results on Thursday after testing five electric vehicles as part of its $14 million Real-World Testing Program.
The findings come one week after the program revealed 25 out of 30 petrol and hybrid vehicles tested had consumed more fuel than their lab results showed and more than three in every four vehicles examined had failed to meet expectations.
The motoring body road-tested five electric vehicles in its first trial of the technology, using a 93km circuit around Geelong in Victoria in damp and dry conditions, and measuring the vehicles' energy consumption.
BYD's Atto 3 SUV produced the worst result of the models tested, falling short of its promised range by 111km or 23 per cent, and using 21 per cent more power than advertised.
Tesla's entry-level electric car, the Model 3, also failed to meet its promised range by 14 per cent, or 72km, and used six per cent more electricity than lab results showed.
The Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6 SUVs also failed to meet their range by eight per cent, or just over 40km, while the Smart #3 electric car came the closest to its lab test results, falling within five per cent or 23km of the advertised range.
The results could help families and fleet managers make choices about their next vehicle purchases, association managing director Michael Bradley said, as research showed range anxiety remained a significant concern for buyers.
'As more EVs enter our market, our testing will help consumers understand which new market entrants measure up on battery range,' he said.
An electric car's range could be affected by a number of factors, Australian Electric Vehicle Association national president Chris Jones said.
These include high or low temperatures, headwinds, steep terrain, and the use of air conditioning and heating features.
Car makers should seek to 'under-promise and over-deliver' when it comes to vehicle range, he said, to allow buyers to make informed choices about the models that will suit their needs.
'It is frustrating that manufacturers are inflating the values when they really ought to be a bit more conservative,' Mr Jones said.
'I would have thought a 10 per cent difference was reasonable but 20 per cent is pretty bad.'
Electric vehicle range is typically tested in Australia using the older New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) laboratory test, but this will be replaced by the more accurate Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) from December.
The Australian Automobile Association's vehicle-testing program, funded by the federal government, has examined 114 fuel-powered vehicles since it began in 2023 and found 88 models, or 77 per cent, failed to meet their advertised energy consumption.
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The Advertiser
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The arrival of electric and hybrid utes and the promise of more would usher further changes, Mr Evans said. "The EV revolution has certainly changed from when we started three years ago - we couldn't do this show," he said. "There are currently 96 to 100 electric models in market in Australia and there are another 70 coming in 2026, including light commercials." The event, held at Sydney's International Convention Centre, showed off converted Ford F-150 Lightning electric utes, as well as BYD's Shark 6 plug-in hybrid and electric vans from Volkswagen and newcomer Farizon. Traditional diesel utes such as Kia's Tasman and the RAM 1500 Hurricane would also go on show, Mr Evans said, but he expected many buyers to inspect low-emission offerings first. "You've got your big players, obviously, with Fords and Toyotas, but there are a lot of challengers coming into the space," he said. "More than ever, businesses are looking at what the options are and what's happening within the new energy space." Other companies offering electric and hybrid utes in Australia include Chinese brands LDV and GWM, with models expected from established players Ford and Isuzu within months. Adding utes to the nation's electrified fleet would be critical to helping EVs become a mainstream purchase, Australian Electric Vehicle Association president Chris Jones said, as utes had become a mainstay. "We've got pretty much every other mode and every other segment covered, but utes and vans are a bit of a deficiency," he said. "If you can convince rural and regional Australia to buy an EV, then you've convinced everyone, because they'll probably be the most sceptical." Some vehicle manufacturers were still reticent to make left-hand-drive electric utes for Australia though, Dr Jones warned, such as Rivian with its R1T and Ford with its F-150. Australian drivers love utes, but for years there have been few low-emission options. Electric and hybrid utility vehicles have gone on show alongside battery-powered vans and trucks in Sydney at the first Australian event dedicated to light commercial vehicles. Transport experts welcomed the changes but they warned major vehicle manufacturers were still delaying the launch of some electric utes, meaning the transition away from petrol- and diesel-powered offerings could take several years. The exhibition on Thursday and Friday came after BYD posted record sales for its plug-in hybrid ute during June and July, helping the Chinese firm surpass US electric car giant Tesla. Shifting driver attitudes and government policies were largely responsible for changing the automotive market, FutureDrive AutoShows chief executive Ray Evans said. Those changes had encouraged sole traders, and small and large businesses, to seek more-efficient vehicles. The arrival of electric and hybrid utes and the promise of more would usher further changes, Mr Evans said. "The EV revolution has certainly changed from when we started three years ago - we couldn't do this show," he said. "There are currently 96 to 100 electric models in market in Australia and there are another 70 coming in 2026, including light commercials." The event, held at Sydney's International Convention Centre, showed off converted Ford F-150 Lightning electric utes, as well as BYD's Shark 6 plug-in hybrid and electric vans from Volkswagen and newcomer Farizon. Traditional diesel utes such as Kia's Tasman and the RAM 1500 Hurricane would also go on show, Mr Evans said, but he expected many buyers to inspect low-emission offerings first. "You've got your big players, obviously, with Fords and Toyotas, but there are a lot of challengers coming into the space," he said. "More than ever, businesses are looking at what the options are and what's happening within the new energy space." Other companies offering electric and hybrid utes in Australia include Chinese brands LDV and GWM, with models expected from established players Ford and Isuzu within months. Adding utes to the nation's electrified fleet would be critical to helping EVs become a mainstream purchase, Australian Electric Vehicle Association president Chris Jones said, as utes had become a mainstay. "We've got pretty much every other mode and every other segment covered, but utes and vans are a bit of a deficiency," he said. "If you can convince rural and regional Australia to buy an EV, then you've convinced everyone, because they'll probably be the most sceptical." Some vehicle manufacturers were still reticent to make left-hand-drive electric utes for Australia though, Dr Jones warned, such as Rivian with its R1T and Ford with its F-150. Australian drivers love utes, but for years there have been few low-emission options. Electric and hybrid utility vehicles have gone on show alongside battery-powered vans and trucks in Sydney at the first Australian event dedicated to light commercial vehicles. Transport experts welcomed the changes but they warned major vehicle manufacturers were still delaying the launch of some electric utes, meaning the transition away from petrol- and diesel-powered offerings could take several years. The exhibition on Thursday and Friday came after BYD posted record sales for its plug-in hybrid ute during June and July, helping the Chinese firm surpass US electric car giant Tesla. Shifting driver attitudes and government policies were largely responsible for changing the automotive market, FutureDrive AutoShows chief executive Ray Evans said. Those changes had encouraged sole traders, and small and large businesses, to seek more-efficient vehicles. The arrival of electric and hybrid utes and the promise of more would usher further changes, Mr Evans said. "The EV revolution has certainly changed from when we started three years ago - we couldn't do this show," he said. "There are currently 96 to 100 electric models in market in Australia and there are another 70 coming in 2026, including light commercials." The event, held at Sydney's International Convention Centre, showed off converted Ford F-150 Lightning electric utes, as well as BYD's Shark 6 plug-in hybrid and electric vans from Volkswagen and newcomer Farizon. Traditional diesel utes such as Kia's Tasman and the RAM 1500 Hurricane would also go on show, Mr Evans said, but he expected many buyers to inspect low-emission offerings first. "You've got your big players, obviously, with Fords and Toyotas, but there are a lot of challengers coming into the space," he said. "More than ever, businesses are looking at what the options are and what's happening within the new energy space." Other companies offering electric and hybrid utes in Australia include Chinese brands LDV and GWM, with models expected from established players Ford and Isuzu within months. Adding utes to the nation's electrified fleet would be critical to helping EVs become a mainstream purchase, Australian Electric Vehicle Association president Chris Jones said, as utes had become a mainstay. "We've got pretty much every other mode and every other segment covered, but utes and vans are a bit of a deficiency," he said. "If you can convince rural and regional Australia to buy an EV, then you've convinced everyone, because they'll probably be the most sceptical." Some vehicle manufacturers were still reticent to make left-hand-drive electric utes for Australia though, Dr Jones warned, such as Rivian with its R1T and Ford with its F-150. 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The arrival of electric and hybrid utes and the promise of more would usher further changes, Mr Evans said. "The EV revolution has certainly changed from when we started three years ago - we couldn't do this show," he said. "There are currently 96 to 100 electric models in market in Australia and there are another 70 coming in 2026, including light commercials." The event, held at Sydney's International Convention Centre, showed off converted Ford F-150 Lightning electric utes, as well as BYD's Shark 6 plug-in hybrid and electric vans from Volkswagen and newcomer Farizon. Traditional diesel utes such as Kia's Tasman and the RAM 1500 Hurricane would also go on show, Mr Evans said, but he expected many buyers to inspect low-emission offerings first. "You've got your big players, obviously, with Fords and Toyotas, but there are a lot of challengers coming into the space," he said. "More than ever, businesses are looking at what the options are and what's happening within the new energy space." Other companies offering electric and hybrid utes in Australia include Chinese brands LDV and GWM, with models expected from established players Ford and Isuzu within months. Adding utes to the nation's electrified fleet would be critical to helping EVs become a mainstream purchase, Australian Electric Vehicle Association president Chris Jones said, as utes had become a mainstay. "We've got pretty much every other mode and every other segment covered, but utes and vans are a bit of a deficiency," he said. "If you can convince rural and regional Australia to buy an EV, then you've convinced everyone, because they'll probably be the most sceptical." Some vehicle manufacturers were still reticent to make left-hand-drive electric utes for Australia though, Dr Jones warned, such as Rivian with its R1T and Ford with its F-150.
The Advertiser
9 hours ago
- The Advertiser
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The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes "unnecessary confusion". The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02," said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. "This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. "Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. "We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion." The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. "All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists," said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. "Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law." The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. "Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance," said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. "This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world? Content originally sourced from: The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes "unnecessary confusion". The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02," said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. "This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. "Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. "We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion." The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. "All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists," said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. "Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law." The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. "Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance," said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. "This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world? Content originally sourced from: The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes "unnecessary confusion". The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02," said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. "This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. "Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. "We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion." The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. "All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists," said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. "Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law." The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. "Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance," said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. "This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world? Content originally sourced from: The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes "unnecessary confusion". The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02," said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. "This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. "Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. "We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion." The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. "All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists," said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. "Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law." The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. "Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance," said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. "This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others. MORE: EV range claims from BYD, Tesla, others scrutinised in new real-world testing MORE: Real-world testing shows Ford Ranger among emissions-breaching models MORE: Real-world testing shows not all hybrids are created equal at saving fuel MORE: Popular Australian models found to use up to 35 per cent more fuel than claimed MORE: New data shows even more new cars are thirstier and dirtier than claimed MORE: Real-world tests reveal the cars that are thirstier than they claim MORE: The popular cars, SUVs and utes that can't match their fuel economy claims MORE: Real-world fuel use shows popular Australian new cars drastically exceed claims MORE: Which SUVs don't match their fuel economy stickers in the real world? Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
9 hours ago
- 7NEWS
Government-funded fuel economy and EV range tests cause confusion, says automaker body
The peak body for car brands in Australia has criticised a government-funded program that tests the fuel economy, emissions and range claims of automakers, arguing it causes 'unnecessary confusion'. The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) recently expanded its Commonwealth-funded Real-World Testing Program, which commenced in 2023, to include testing of the range and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has questioned the merit of the AAA's testing. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. 'All vehicles, including EVs, sold in Australia are tested under strict laboratory conditions set out in Australian Design Rule 81/02,' said FCAI chief executive Tony Weber in a statement. 'This consistent methodology ensures vehicles can be reliably compared, regardless of brand or model. 'Tests conducted outside the ADR process are influenced by many variables, including traffic, terrain, weather and driving style. No two drivers or journeys are the same. 'We support transparent, evidence-based information for consumers, but it must be consistent. When conflicting figures are published, it undermines confidence and causes unnecessary confusion.' The FCAI argues ADR 81/02 laboratory testing is already mandated by the federal government, so the funding of a real-world test program results in inconsistencies. The peak auto industry body and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appear to have found some common ground. 'All cars, including petrol and diesel cars, often present different results in the lab compared to real-world conditions. Laboratory testing occurs in controlled conditions while real-world driving throws in all sorts of variables such as traffic flows, hills, rough roads, weather, extra passenger or luggage weight, and the unique driving styles of motorists,' said the EVC's head of legal, policy and advocacy, Aman Gaur, in a statement. 'Given the unpredictable nature of driving needs, it's inherently challenging for manufacturers to provide real-world estimates. That's why electric vehicle manufacturers are following the rules and advertising the test results that are required by law.' The EVC also noted hat most EV manufacturers use more realistic WLTP electric range figures, instead of the NEDC standard that was phased out in Europe several years ago but still underpins the local ADR 81/02 figures. In AAA testing, various models were found to return results well adrift of their lab-tested claims. In its inaugural testing of EVs, the results of which were released this week, the BYD Atto 3 electric SUV was found to have 23 per cent less range than claimed and 21 per cent higher energy consumption. In previous testing, a raft of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles were also found to exceed their advertised fuel economy and CO2 emissions claims. The previous-generation BMW X3, for example, was found to use 20 per cent more fuel and produce 23 per cent more CO2 than claimed, while the Chery Omoda 5 used 32 per cent more fuel and produced 26.8 per cent more CO2. Other disappointing results included previous generations of the MG 3 (+19 and +13 per cent, respectively) and Suzuki Swift (+31 and +31). The latter was also found to produce more than double the mandated lab limit for carbon monoxide. Some hybrids have also fallen short in the AAA testing program, with the GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid found to use 32 per cent more fuel and produce 31.5 per cent more CO2 than its claims. The AAA has said the need for real-world testing was first demonstrated by the Volkswagen emissions scandal (commonly referred to as Dieselgate), in which Volkswagen vehicles were found to use software to trick lab tests, and it claims real-world data is important during the cost-of-living crisis for households and fleets alike. It subsequently received $14 million in government funding for the Real-World Testing Program, which is conducted from a facility in Geelong and on public roads in and around the city. The aim remains to examine up to 200 cars, utes and vans over a four-year period. 'Australian car buyers have for too long been misled regarding their vehicle's fuel consumption and environmental performance,' said AAA managing director Michael Bradley in 2023. 'This Program will deliver Australians truth-in-advertising and drive down demand for cars that over-promise and under-deliver. Better information will enable families and fleet buyers to buy vehicles that will meet their budget and environmental requirements. While the FCAI represents most auto brands (notable exceptions include EVC members Tesla and Polestar), the AAA is the peak organisation for Australia's motoring clubs and their 9.5 million members, representing the likes of the NRMA, RACV, RACQ and others.
