Volkswagen’s all-electric ID.7 Pro S has demonstrated remarkable efficiency, covering 493 miles (794 km) on a single battery charge – significantly exceeding its official WLTP range of 440 miles (709 km). Every EV discussion group online will have a group of detractors who claim that they will never consider an EV until they are able to drive to Newcastle and back on a single charge (you know who you are!). The achievement by VW really shows just how far battery technology and driving efficiency have come in the five years since the UK began to seriously move toward carbon-free motoring.
This journey represents the equivalent distance of London to Newcastle – and back – using A-roads. While that won't be a popular choice of route, it does give a sense of the tremendous distance covered. To be honest, this kind of ‘range record' was not on the cards when we first got hands-on the ID.7 back in April 2023.
The journey was undertaken by Volkswagen Team Switzerland, led by long-distance driving specialist Felix Egolf. The ID.7 Pro S, with its 86-kWh (net) battery, was driven on a defined 50-mile (81 km) circuit in the Zug metropolitan area, south of Zurich. This route incorporated a mix of main roads, motorways, and country roads, replicating everyday driving conditions. The vehicle was operated during the day and throughout normal traffic, maintaining an average speed of 32 mph (51 km/h). Over two consecutive days, eight different drivers completed the journey on a single charge, achieving an average energy consumption of 10.3 kWh per 62 miles (100 km)—significantly lower than the model’s lowest WLTP figure of 13.6 kWh per 62 miles (100 km).
By the end of the test, a remaining range of about one mile (two km) was displayed, indicating the full potential of the battery had nearly been utilised. The total distance covered—493 miles (794 km)—is roughly equivalent to a journey from Basel to Emden, Germany, where the ID.7 is manufactured.
Efficiency and Design of the ID.7 Pro S
The ID.7 Pro S, with its 86-kWh battery, is part of Volkswagen’s ID. electric vehicle range and is designed for efficiency and long-distance travel. According to WLTP calculations, the model can reach a maximum range of up to 440 miles (709 km) under favourable conditions. It features a drag coefficient of 0.23, depending on equipment, which contributes to its low energy consumption and extended range capabilities. The official combined WLTP consumption is between 13.6 to 16.2 kWh per 62 miles (100 km), depending on the optional features included.
Notably, the model used for this test was not the most range-optimised variant of the ID.7 Pro S. It came equipped with additional features, including a Comfort package, IQ.DRIVE assist systems, a Plus exterior package, and a heat pump. With this setup, the WLTP range is estimated at around 435 miles (700 km). Nevertheless, the real-world test still managed to surpass the vehicle's estimated range.
Felix Egolf: The ‘Hypermiler'
Felix Egolf, who led the project, is known for his hypermiling skills—driving an EV to achieve the maximum possible range with minimal energy consumption. His expertise was evident in previous record-breaking drives with the Volkswagen ID.3, where he exceeded the vehicle’s theoretical range on two separate occasions. In 2020, Egolf drove an ID.3 1st Edition from Zwickau, Germany, to Schaffhausen, Switzerland, covering 330 miles (531 km) on a single charge. In a subsequent test with an ID.3 Pro S, Egolf achieved 374 miles (602 km) in a single journey across 15 Alpine passes, with a total altitude gain of 13,000 metres.
Charging and Route Planning
The ID.7 Pro S is also built to ensure convenient charging and efficient route planning. With a maximum charging power of 200 kW, a quick 10-minute charging session can add approximately 152 miles (244 km) to the vehicle’s range, providing significant flexibility for long journeys. A more extensive charge from 10% to 80% can be completed in about 26 minutes, making it well-suited for short breaks.
To assist with route efficiency, Volkswagen offers an optional Electric Vehicle Route Planner in the ID.7. This tool calculates optimal routes based on the vehicle’s battery charge and available charging stations. It identifies the most suitable charging points and plans charging stops to ensure the journey remains efficient. The system also uses real-time traffic data to offer the fastest and most convenient travel routes.
Volkswagen’s EV Strategy and Global Reach
The ID.7 Pro S is part of Volkswagen’s larger strategy to expand its electric vehicle offering as part of the ID. family. In 2023, the company delivered around 4.9 million cars globally, including approximately 394,000 all-electric models. The brand continues to push forward its “ACCELERATE” strategy, focusing on sustainable mobility and the development of desirable EVs.
Volkswagen produces its passenger cars at 29 locations across 12 countries. Popular models include the Polo, T-Roc, T-Cross, Golf, Tiguan, Passat, and the expanding ID. series, which includes the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, and now, the ID.7. Around 170,000 employees work across the brand worldwide, contributing to its mission to become a leader in sustainable transportation.
Where we are and what's next?
The recent real-world driving test in Switzerland demonstrates the modern EV's potential to exceed its official WLTP range in normal traffic conditions. VW is obviously hoping that this achievement – coupled with the vehicle’s efficient design, energy consumption and fast charging capabilities – will position the ID.7 Pro S as a strong contender in the electric saloon market.
Such tests underscore the advancements in EV technology, providing potential buyers with confidence in range capabilities and highlighting the progress being made in electric mobility.
Now that it's been shown that EVs can achieve ridiculous ranges on existing technology, the next step will be toward technologies like those demonstrated by StoreDot – where a Polestar car was charged to 80% in just 10 minutes. Independent research carried out by WhichEV has shown that the vast majority of drives will have stopped for a break by the 150 mile mark. So a future car with 300 mile range and the ability to easily pick up an additional 240 miles in 10 minutes, would seem to fit the bill for those who drive long distances on a regular basis.
Naturally, next-gen batteries – with better range and faster charging – would mean that we need less of them and so another round of EV price cuts seems likely before the end of 2027. If you want to see what an ID.7 feels like today, then we suggest you go drive one.
Discussion about this post