Battery sizes and real-world range
Reading kWh figures and turning them into kilometres you can trust.
You'll learn
- Explain battery sizes and real-world range in plain language
- Recognise the key vocabulary
- Apply the idea to a real vehicle
Overview
Battery capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours. Divide capacity by consumption and you have range — the only arithmetic an EV owner really needs.
In depth
Formula
Range (km) = usable capacity (kWh) ÷ consumption (kWh/100 km) × 100
Usable capacity is always a little less than the headline figure, because a buffer protects the cells.
Example: 58 kWh usable ÷ 16 kWh/100 km × 100 = 362 km
| Pack size | Typical segment | Realistic mixed range |
|---|---|---|
| 30–40 kWh | City car | 180–250 km |
| 50–60 kWh | Family hatchback | 300–380 km |
| 70–85 kWh | SUV / saloon | 400–500 km |
| 90–110 kWh | Large SUV / premium | 500–600 km |
Activity
Match the pack to the car
City runabout
→Family hatchback
→Seven-seat SUV
→Key takeaways
Remember this
- Range = usable kWh ÷ consumption.
- Usable capacity is smaller than the advertised total.
- Bigger packs cost weight, money and charging time.
Mark this lesson complete
Confirm you've read through and we'll count it toward your progress.
Was this lesson helpful?
Rate this lesson