A Volkswagen ID.4 Achieved a Fresh Electric Vehicle Milestone on a 4,432-Mile Expedition

Zietlow is predominantly recognized for spearheading Challenge4, a platform through which he undertakes daring adventure drives. His endeavors range from achieving altitude records in a Volkswagen Touareg to crossing various continents in vehicles fueled by natural gas. As highlighted by CarScoops, his most recent undertaking involved traversing Canada in an EV while minimizing the number of required charging stops during the journey.

In keeping with the majority of his exploits, Zietlow once again chose a Volkswagen for this challenge. The feat was accomplished using a Volkswagen ID.4, accompanied by photographer Elric Popp. Commencing their expedition in St John’s, Newfoundland, the duo covered 4,432 miles, culminating at Mile 0 on the Trans-Canada Highway in Victoria, British Columbia. The entire journey was completed with just eighteen charging stops, with the ID.4 maintaining an average range of 246 miles between charges.

The specific variant of the ID.4 utilized for the expedition was not detailed in reports. Presumably, the rear-wheel-drive model, boasting a lengthier 274-mile range, would have been the logical choice, as the premier all-wheel-drive model falls short with a range of 255 miles in contrast. The Drive has initiated contact with Zietlow for comments and will amend the article accordingly.

If you’re a seasoned follower of The Drive, you may recall our own encounters with similar journeys, such as crossing the Nullarbor Desert in a Kia EV6. In such ventures, meticulous planning of charging stops is essential. A miscalculation could lead to being stranded in a remote location due to battery depletion, jeopardizing the record attempt. It is also crucial to allot sufficient time for the journey, as speeding can significantly reduce the overall range.

It’s pertinent to acknowledge that Zietlow’s achievement presents an opportunity for competition. While the Volkswagen ID.4 isn’t the lengthiest range EV available, it stands as an accessible target for a determined challenger. Such a pursuit would necessitate a higher-capacity EV and the commitment to see it through. Should you decide to venture for the world record before we do, feel free to reach out to us.

Have a lead? Inform the author at: lewin@thedrive.com