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Payload vs laden range: what WLTP hides

The headline WLTP range on a van spec sheet is measured unladen. Real fleet operations carry payload, and the loss can be 20-40%. Here is how to read the figures and what to ask manufacturers for.

Last reviewed May 2026.

The WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) range you see quoted for every electric van is measured on a chassis dynamometer with the vehicle at kerb weight plus 100 kg of test driver / equipment. It is not a representative figure for a delivery van running at 80% of its payload capacity.

How big is the laden gap?

Manufacturer-published laden range figures (where they exist) consistently come in 20-40% below WLTP. Real-world fleet operator reports suggest the gap widens to 30-45% in winter, on motorway-heavy routes, or when running fully laden the entire shift.

The Renault Master E-Tech publishes a laden range. So does the Mercedes eSprinter. Most others - including Ford E-Transit, Vauxhall Movano Electric and most of the Maxus range - do not, and you have to triangulate from operator reports.

Why this matters for procurement

If your route runs at the edge of WLTP range, you almost certainly will not finish a shift on the worst weather day fully laden. A van that quotes 200 mi WLTP may deliver 130-140 mi laden in February, which makes the difference between a one-charge route and a mid-day top-up.

As a general rule of thumb, allow about 0.65 × WLTP for real-world laden range and about 0.78 × WLTP unladen. The van finder on the fleet home page is more cautious: it estimates loaded winter range from WLTP by taking off the usual real-world, winter and load penalties, which comes out at around 55% of the WLTP figure.

What to ask the manufacturer

  • Ask for written laden-range test results at maximum payload, including the test conditions.
  • Ask for delivery-route evidence from existing UK fleet operators, including typical payloads, route types and charging stops.
  • Winter range degradation in their own testing (heat pump present? rate of capacity loss below 5°C?).
  • Battery degradation curve - 8 yr / 100k km warranty typically guarantees 70%+ SoH.

Rule of thumb

For any duty cycle above 60% of WLTP, the route is single-charge realistic year-round. Above 80% of WLTP, plan for a top-up. Above WLTP, plan for a vehicle change or split-shift charging.

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