Vehicle leasing company Arval has conducted a study in collaboration with The United Test and Assembly Centre (UTAC) to examine the performance of electric vehicles (EVs) under real-world conditions. The research focuses specifically on how towing impacts the efficiency and range of electric vehicles. The study provides data on the range reductions experienced by different types of electric vehicles, including light commercial vehicles (eLCVs) and electric cars, when subjected to towing and various payload scenarios.
Arval’s latest research builds on their 2021 ‘Electric Fleet Transition Powered by Real-World Data’ report, which first explored the effects of temperature and payload on electric light commercial vehicles (eLCVs). The new study takes this further, investigating how towing and varying payloads impact the range of different electric vehicle types, including large and mid-size eLCVs, as well as electric cars.
The tests were conducted at UTAC’s test centre in Millbrook, Bedfordshire, under controlled conditions. Vehicles were pre-conditioned at 23°C, fully charged, and driven over an 80 km course. The test scenarios for eLCVs included three payload conditions—0%, 50%, and 100%—with an additional scenario incorporating 500 kg towing with a full payload. For electric cars, two scenarios were examined: with and without 500 kg towing, both carrying four passengers.
The study starkly highlighted that real-world EV performance falls short of the optimistic figures presented in official Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) data. Full-size electric LCVs achieved only 57% of their WLTP range, mid-size LCVs 55%, and electric cars just 50%.
Test results: The significant impact of towing on electric vehicles
The most striking finding from Arval’s research is the substantial reduction in range when EVs are subjected to towing and full payloads. For large eLCVs, the transition from an unladen to a fully laden state with towing saw a dramatic reduction in range—an overall decrease of 31.4 percentage points, leaving the vehicle with just 68.6% of its real-use maximum range. Mid-size eLCVs fared slightly better, with a total reduction of 24.1 percentage points under similar conditions, resulting in 75.9% of the real-use range.
The data underscores the inherent difficulties of using battery electric vehicles (BEVs) for commercial purposes where towing is required. For large commercial vehicles, towing while carrying a full load can diminish range by as much as 33% compared to real-use figures. This is notably higher than the efficiency drop observed in diesel vans under similar conditions, which stands at about 15%.
Furthermore, BEVs are hindered by shorter initial ranges and longer recharging times, posing a significant obstacle for businesses accustomed to the efficiency of diesel vehicles. For instance, a mid-size electric van may tow up to 750 kg, whereas a comparable diesel van could tow up to 3000 kg. Despite the higher torque and stability that BEVs offer, their limited range and the extended time required for recharging make them less appealing for towing-intensive operations.
Charging infrastructure: A key barrier to EV adoption
The shift to electric vehicles is not solely about the vehicles themselves but also about the infrastructure supporting them. Effective and convenient charging solutions are critical, particularly for commercial operations where downtime equates to lost revenue. Unlike diesel vans, which benefit from a century-old refuelling infrastructure, BEVs require a new network of charging stations capable of supporting their unique needs, especially for larger eLCVs.
Arval’s research suggests that while drivers appreciate the performance of electric vans, managing charging downtime remains a significant challenge. The Arval Mobility Observatory Barometer 2024 indicates that many companies plan to install charging points at their premises, yet the design and availability of these points are often insufficient for larger LCVs. This is especially problematic for high-mileage operators who rely on their vehicles to be in constant use.
For depot-based fleets, upgrading infrastructure to accommodate larger numbers of eLCVs is imperative. This is particularly important in industries where time-sensitive deliveries or high-value cargo are involved, as any delay due to charging could have significant financial implications.
Push for zero-emission vs reality
The transition to electric vehicles for commercial use is both a complex and critical endeavour. Arval’s research provides fleet operators with the data needed to make informed decisions about adopting BEVs, particularly when towing is involved. However, the findings also highlight the need for continued advancements in technology and infrastructure to overcome the challenges currently facing BEVs.
Potential solutions include increasing the number of vehicles to spread the workload, expanding charging locations, and improving business charging infrastructure. Arval’s own initiatives, such as the Arval Energy project, aim to enhance access to charging stations and support the development of faster, more intelligent recharging systems. Innovations like Smart Charging and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology could also play a crucial role in making BEVs more viable for commercial use.