Hyundai Ioniq Electric long-term test review: report 4
Can owning an electric car be a viable option even if you can't charge it at home? We're finding out, with the help of the recently facelifted Hyundai Ioniq Electric...
The car Hyundai Ioniq Electric Premium SE Run by Darren Moss, deputy editor
Why it’s here To prove that electric motoring is now convenient enough to be an option for someone who can’t charge at home
Needs to Be practical and comfortable, have enough range for longer journeys, even in winter, and slash my running costs compared with a petrol or diesel car
Mileage 2703 List price £34,950 Target Price £33,492 Price as tested £35,605 Test range 168 miles Official range 194 miles (WLTP)
21 January 2020 – Home on the range?
What happens when an electric car comes close to running out of range? Well, after a particularly mileage-heavy weekend recently, I found out. First off, when I hit 20 miles of range remaining, the low battery warning light came up on the dashboard, with a corresponding warning message on the infotainment screen. And then, as I neared my destination and its blessed charging point, the range indicator went from 13 miles to being replaced by three dashes. Very helpful.
Another warning light came on at this point, with another message telling me that power was now reduced. With 6% of battery charge left, I did reach my nearest charging point, but if I’d kept going, what would have happened?
Well, the car will continue to restrict power in order to eke out as much range as possible. At 3% an alarm sounds to the driver, and if you make it to 1% battery remaining, you'll be limited to around 10mph as you crawl to the nearest plug socket. Worth knowing, sure, but perhaps not worth exploring.
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