In response to a recent U.S. government regulation aimed at enhancing accuracy in reflecting real-world performance, Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) has revised its electric vehicle (EV) driving-range estimations, resulting in a notable shift in the disclosed figures on its official website.
The adjustments, now visible on Tesla’s website, cover a range of models, including the 2023 X, S, Y, and 3 variants. Notably, the Model Y Long Range EV’s estimated range on Tesla’s site is now stated as 310 miles, diverging from the 330 miles displayed on the government’s EPA-managed fuel economy site. Similarly, the range estimate for the performance variant of the Model Y has been revised from 303 miles to 285 miles.
While some adjustments were minor, such as the Model X Plaid variant decreasing from a 333-mile estimated range to 326 miles, more significant changes were observed. The Model S Plaid’s estimated range, for instance, has been adjusted from 396 miles to 359 miles, as per the latest data on Tesla’s website compared to an archived version from a few days prior.
Tesla’s history of providing range estimates that exceeded actual capabilities had drawn criticism from customers. Reports from July revealed that the company had manipulated the algorithm governing in-dash range estimates around a decade ago, presenting overly optimistic projections of driving distances before requiring a recharge.
In response to numerous range-related complaints, Tesla formed a discreet team in 2022 dedicated to addressing these issues and finding solutions without necessitating service appointments. This development prompted federal investigators to subpoena Tesla for information regarding its vehicles’ driving range, as disclosed in an October regulatory filing.
The new U.S. regulations mandate that EV manufacturers conduct driving range and fuel efficiency tests using the vehicle’s initial or default driving mode. If a default mode is absent, automakers are instructed to test the vehicle in both its most and least efficient modes, as outlined in a July 2022 EPA letter to automakers. Notably, Tesla’s marketing pages on its website do not specify a particular model year when listing estimated ranges for its vehicles.
In the stock market, Tesla’s shares (TSLA) experienced a 2.33% decline in mid-day trading on Tuesday, reflecting the ongoing developments and adjustments in response to the regulatory landscape.
