Battery how it works

Why are the batteries so heavy?

We specifically engineered the MEB platform to accommodate the batteries. Depending on the size, an electric battery weighs anywhere from 300 (48 kWh) to 500 kilos. The cell modules account for most of the weight (approx. 70%), while the remainder comes from the aluminium housing, cooling system, copper and switching elements, and electronics.

Despite the higher overall weight, an electric vehicle is much more efficient than a car with a combustion engine. Because, at more than 90%, the efficiency level of an EV powertrain is higher.

This can be illustrated by a mid-range MEB battery rated at 62 kWh (gross) with 58 kWh (net) of usable power. 58 kWh is equivalent to 6.3 litres of petrol. With 58 kWh of energy, the ID.3 has a range of around 420 kilometres. A comparable petrol engine car uses 6.3 litres to travel roughly 140 kilometres (at 4.5 l/100 km). In other words, the ID.3 is three times more efficient.

Another advantage of the MEB platform is that the batteries in an ID. vehicle are spread out over the car's chassis. Compared to a car with a combustion engine, the weight is much more evenly distributed. And this has a positive impact on handling and driving performance.