Volkswagen ID.3 undergoing persistent testing

Volkswagen ID.3 undergoing persistent testing - conclusions undeniable

Volkswagen ID.3 Passes ADAC's 160,000-kilometer Durability Test with Flying Colours

In a significant milestone for electric vehicle (EV) durability testing, the ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club) has concluded that the Volkswagen ID.3 withstands stress without major weaknesses after a gruelling four-year, 160,000-kilometre trial.

The test, which took place at the Landsberg am Lech test and technology centre, aimed to objectively assess the durability of the high-voltage battery and the overall quality of the vehicle. The ID.3 Pro S01, equipped with a net battery capacity of 77 kWh, was put through its paces, facing challenging conditions such as frequent fast-charging and prolonged parking with a full battery.

Despite these demanding circumstances, no technical defects were found in the ID.3 after 160,000 kilometres. The battery, in particular, showed no significant weaknesses, with a net capacity retaining 91 percent of its original capacity. This impressive result was further boosted by software updates during the test, which improved charging performance and efficiency.

Moreover, at low temperatures between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius, the new software reduced energy consumption on short distances, demonstrating the vehicle's adaptability to various climate conditions.

The ID.3's body, suspension, and steering also proved robust, with no issues detected after 160,000 kilometres. The axles and suspension were found to be well-suited to the vehicle's weight, ensuring a smooth and stable ride even under high stress.

Volkswagen's sales boss, Martin Sander, commented on the result, stating that it demonstrates the high quality of their ID models, even after many kilometres. He further emphasised the importance of software updates, as the ADAC strongly recommends installing them.

However, it's worth noting that Volkswagen guarantees only 70 percent battery capacity after eight years or 160,000 kilometres. This underscores the ongoing need for regular maintenance and updates to ensure the longevity of EV batteries.

The engineer who supervised the battery condition monitoring during the ADAC durability tests on the VW ID.3 remains unnamed in the available search results.

One standout feature that emerged from the test was the integrated e-route planner, which was updated to consider traffic conditions and forecasts for faster destination arrival. This feature, combined with the ID.3's impressive durability, positions the vehicle as a strong contender in the EV market.

This is the first test of its kind for an ID series model, marking a significant step forward in EV durability testing and providing valuable insights into the long-term performance of electric vehicles.