In a remarkable display of electric vehicle (EV) technology and innovation, Webfleet, Bridgestone’s renowned fleet management solution, has shattered the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the longest journey by an electric car on a single charge. The impressive feat saw a Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV cover 569.64 miles (916.74 km) on a single charge, surpassing the previous record of 563.97 miles set in Hangzhou, China.
The record-breaking journey was achieved by Webfleet-sponsored drivers Kevin Booker and Sam Clarke, with Richard Parker serving as co-pilot. The team meticulously documented the drive using independently verified video footage, odometer readings, GPS, and battery level data provided by Webfleet. The 91kWh battery-powered Mustang Mach-E Premium Extended Range SUV RWD Auto, equipped with 18” wheels, showcased its superior efficiency, averaging 6.25 miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh) over the course of the 24-hour drive.
The route covered various terrains and conditions, including urban and rural roads throughout Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, and Cambridgeshire. This diverse driving environment aimed to emulate real-world conditions and demonstrate the vehicle's capabilities under normal driving scenarios.
A critical component in this world record attempt was the use of Bridgestone tyres, specifically designed to offer low rolling resistance and high mileage. These tyres played a pivotal role in optimising the vehicle's range and efficiency. Beverley Wise, Webfleet UKI Regional Director for Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, emphasised the significance of this achievement, stating, "This record is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in this endeavour. It represents a significant milestone in the electrification of road transport and demonstrates the potential of electric vehicles when supported by innovative Bridgestone tyre design and advanced fleet management technology."
Both Booker and Clarke are no strangers to breaking records. The duo has previously set records for fuel economy and energy consumption in electric vehicles. Reflecting on the achievement, Booker remarked, "Breaking this record has been an exhilarating journey and a powerful demonstration of what electric vehicles can achieve. It is incredible to see how far we have come with EV technology and efficiency. We hope this inspires more people to consider electric vehicles for their everyday travel."
Clarke added, "Driving the Ford Mustang Mach-E for such a distance on a single charge was an extraordinary experience. The vehicle's efficiency and the support from Webfleet’s technology made this possible."
The record attempt received official adjudication and support from the AA, including their expert Patrols and EV support services. Edmund King OBE, AA president, lauded the effort, saying, "We are delighted to have supported this incredible achievement with our expert Patrols and backup team. The drivers, together with Ford Mustang Mach-E, Bridgestone, and Webfleet, have all used their expertise to prove that EVs can go much further than people think. Such endeavours are important to show that electric vehicles can be a major part of the future transport mix."
This remarkable achievement underscores the rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology and the crucial role of tyre engineering in enhancing EV performance. It sets a new benchmark for range and efficiency, offering a glimpse into the potential future of sustainable road transport.
