What is WLTP vs CLTC and how do I compare Chinese EV range figures?
Updated 2026-05-046 min read
Range headlines mean nothing without knowing the test standard. Here's how to translate CLTC to something you can trust in Europe or Australia.
01
The three main range standards
- CLTC (China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle) — mild profile, ~29 min, average 29 km/h. Most optimistic.
- WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) — 30 min, 46.5 km/h avg, higher acceleration. Middle ground.
- EPA (US) — ~40 min including highway, average 77 km/h. Most realistic; typically 10–15% lower than WLTP.
02
Conversion rules of thumb
CLTC → WLTP: multiply by 0.78–0.82.
WLTP → EPA: multiply by 0.85–0.90.
WLTP → real-world winter: multiply by 0.72–0.85 depending on chemistry.
WLTP → real-world 130 km/h motorway: multiply by 0.65–0.75.
03
How to compare like-for-like
Always compare cars on the same standard. Chinese OEM websites quote CLTC by default; EU/UK sites re-homologate and quote WLTP.
If in doubt, use kWh/100km — a car doing 15 kWh/100km will do 60 kWh / 0.15 = 400 km real-world regardless of standard.
Key takeaways
- 01CLTC × 0.80 ≈ WLTP.
- 02WLTP × 0.87 ≈ EPA.
- 03kWh/100 km is the honest metric.
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