Europe's largest automobile association, the German ADAC, recently put the Volkswagen ID.3 electric vehicle to the test in a first-of-its-kind endurance challenge. After covering over 62,000 miles, ADAC's verdict was that the ID.3 is an exceptional performer with its high-voltage battery maintaining an impressive 93 percent of its net capacity. Not only did the battery perform well, but VW's software updates were able to increase the maximum charge speed by 70% after the initial models were delivered to customers.
The Volkswagen ID.3 was introduced to the market as the electric counterpart to the iconic VW Golf, setting high expectations for its performance and durability. Since its debut in 2021 at €48,550, this four-seater vehicle (VW ID.3 Pro S in ‘Tour' trim) has been put through extensive testing by ADAC experts. It was already an affordable option for those looking to transition to electric mobility – but it now has demonstrably good longevity. You can now get the entry level ID.3 with a 58kWh battery from around £37,000.
At 4.26 metres in length and weighing 1.9 tons, the ID.3 uses a 150 kW motor to deliver 310 Nm of torque. To achieve decent range with that size and weight, means you need a substantial battery if you want to provide a smooth/powerful driving experience. It shipped with a 77 kWh battery, the largest available for the ID.3, delivers a substantial WLTP range of 326 miles, which was significant at the time of its launch. Key to the ID.3's relatively attractive performance characteristics come from the fact that it was developed specifically as a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) rather than a conversion from a traditional combustion engine platform.
In contrast, the previous electric version of the VW Golf (which was available until 2020), accommodated a maximum 36 kWh battery, underscoring the ID.3's significant advancement in electric vehicle technology.
Two and a half years into the rigorous ADAC endurance test, the VW ID.3 proved itself as a reliable, everyday vehicle. Engineers praised its safe road handling, comfortable seating and consistent performance. These qualities have led to it becoming a preferred choice for longer journeys – and the ADAC experts reportedly found the test drives enjoyable.
The ID.3 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 7.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 100 mph. Using a more conservative driving style, the ID.3 can achieve an impressive motorway range of around 250 miles, although this figure can decrease to approximately 190 miles when driving in sub-zero temperatures.
Throughout the endurance test, ADAC pushed the ID.3's limits. To expedite the journey to the 62,000 mile/100,000 kilometre mark, the vehicle was frequently charged to 100 percent at fast-charging stations, deviating from the recommended charging practices. The vehicle was also often left at the charging station fully charged for extended periods between testers.
The ID.3's endurance test marks a historic milestone for the ID. family. During the testing period, the vehicle received periodic inspections at the Landsberg am Lech Test and Technical Centre. ADAC engineers meticulously evaluated eight main criteria and more than 300 sub-criteria, encompassing technology, safety, handling, ease of operation, and environmental impact.
The three critical conclusions from the exhaustive endurance test were:-
- The ID.3's high-voltage battery displayed no abnormalities even after 2.5 years of rigorous testing
- Charging speed was consistently increased through software updates, enhancing the vehicle's performance
- The ID.3's Electric Vehicle Route Planning was praised for its intelligent and efficient routing
The ADAC's recommendation to ID.3 customers is clear: Install software updates without hesitation. Over the course of the endurance test, the ID.3 received multiple software updates, which brought various bug fixes and a significant increase in charging speed – from 100kW at launch up to 170 kW. This represented a substantial improvement over the initial capability when the vehicle was introduced to UK showrooms in 2021. The software updates also had a positive impact on power consumption and, consequently, the vehicle's range. Particularly noteworthy is the reduction in power consumption over short distances and during winter temperatures ranging from 0 to 5°C.
The ADAC testers also commended the intelligent Electric Vehicle Route Planner, which was introduced via a software update. This feature optimises charging stops during longer journeys to ensure the quickest route to the destination. The system considers not only the battery's state of charge but also the current traffic conditions and forecasts. As a result, the route planning suggests two short, high-power charging stops over a single long, low-power stop, further enhancing the efficiency and convenience of electric vehicle travel.
The Volkswagen ID.3's successful endurance test results reaffirm its position as a durable, high-performance electric vehicle, with ongoing software updates and intelligent route planning contributing to its appeal.
Volkswagen's commitment to advancing electric vehicle technology is clear – but the company continues to struggle to find the right combination of talent in its software development teams.
The ID.3's performance on the road during testing, goes some way to solidifying its position as a valid choice in the ‘affordable' electric vehicle market – even as that sector becomes more and more competitive.