Volkswagen continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology, with its ID.7 Pro S achieving a remarkable long-distance performance. In a real-world driving test conducted in Switzerland, the ID.7 Pro S surpassed its official WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure) range, covering an impressive 794 kilometres (493 miles) on a single battery charge—significantly exceeding its tested range of 709 kilometres (440 miles).
The ID.7 Pro S is equipped with an 86-kWh net battery and is designed to prioritize efficiency, placing it among the highest-range electric vehicles in its class. The record-breaking drive, led by long-distance driving expert Felix Egolf and his Volkswagen Team Switzerland, took place over two consecutive days on an 81-kilometre circuit in the Zug metropolitan area, south of Zurich. The route encompassed a variety of real-world driving conditions, including urban roads, motorways, and hilly terrain, to mirror typical everyday driving scenarios.
Record Performance in Everyday Conditions
Despite the diverse and challenging nature of the terrain, the ID.7 Pro S excelled, achieving an average energy consumption of just 10.3 kWh/100 km, well below its WLTP-rated consumption of 13.6 kWh/100 km. This ultra-efficient performance is equivalent to only 1.1 litres of diesel per 100 km—a figure that showcases the remarkable capabilities of modern electric vehicle technology.
With eight drivers taking turns behind the wheel, the team maintained a steady average speed of 51 km/h, completing the journey in 15 hours and 42 minutes. By the end of the drive, the ID.7 still had a remaining range of 2 kilometres, further underscoring its exceptional energy efficiency.
Superior Aerodynamics and Technology
The ID.7 Pro S owes much of its outstanding range to its cutting-edge efficiency drive and superior aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient as low as 0.23, depending on the equipment configuration. This sleek design, combined with Volkswagen’s advanced powertrain, allows the vehicle to maximize every kilowatt-hour of energy stored in its battery.
In terms of charging performance, the ID.7 Pro S is equally impressive. With a maximum charging capacity of 200 kW, it can replenish enough energy for approximately 244 kilometres in just 10 minutes—ideal for a quick coffee break. Charging from 10% to 80% takes a mere 26 minutes, making long-distance travel in the ID.7 highly practical.
Advanced Route Planning for Optimized Efficiency
To further enhance its range and efficiency, the ID.7 Pro S is equipped with an optional Electric Vehicle Route Planner. This intelligent system calculates the most efficient route based on the vehicle’s current battery level and the location of charging stations along the journey. It also integrates real-time traffic data, ensuring that drivers can make the most of their time and energy while on the road.
The Legacy of Hypermiling
This isn’t the first time Felix Egolf and Volkswagen have made headlines with record-breaking electric vehicle performance. Egolf, a seasoned hypermiler, has previously set records in the Volkswagen ID.3, where he surpassed the model’s official range by covering 531 kilometres on a single charge. His expertise in energy-efficient driving continues to play a key role in pushing the limits of Volkswagen’s electric vehicles.
A New Standard for Efficiency
The Volkswagen ID.7 Pro S sets a new standard for long-distance electric driving. With its remarkable range, low energy consumption, and cutting-edge technology, it is poised to be a leader in the competitive electric vehicle market. For consumers seeking an electric car that balances practicality with exceptional range, the ID.7 Pro S represents a compelling option, highlighting Volkswagen’s commitment to sustainable mobility and innovation.
As the automotive industry continues its shift towards electrification, Volkswagen’s ID.7 Pro S stands as a testament to the company’s ACCELERATE strategy, which aims to position the brand as a leader in eco-friendly transportation solutions.
