13 July 2021
A new World Record has been confirmed for lowest energy consumption driving from John O'Groats to Land's End in an electric car.
BBC Transport Correspondent Paul Clifton and co-drivers Fergal McGrath and Kevin Booker, who have previously achieved records for petrol and diesel economy, made the journey from John O’Groats to Land’s End in a Ford Mach-E on 3-4 July.
They were supported by a team of AA patrols who provided protection to the world record car throughout the 840-mile journey and acted as independent witnesses to verify the journey data.
The Mach-E travelled over 6.5 miles per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electrical energy used.
This world record is a landmark achievement and shows just how versatile electric cars can be.
Ben Sheridan, AA patrol of the year, said: “It was a roller coaster of emotions driving such a long way through all types of weather, but being part of a team there was no obstacle we couldn’t conquer, from keeping spirts high to giving each other the chance to take a break, we worked together with one common goal.
“It was nerve-wracking at times but so exciting when we made it to the finish line knowing we had likely set a new record. This was truly a once in a lifetime experience. I’m very proud the AA was chosen to take part, not just for safety and assistance purposes but as independent adjudicators.”
Edmund King, AA president, said: "This world record is a landmark achievement and shows just how versatile electric cars can be.
"No longer can electric vehicles be cast as 'just a car for local trips', this record proves that long-distance journeys are possible.
"The situation will only get better as the range of electric cars improves, while more chargers with faster recharging technology are installed across the country.”
The AA has now cemented itself as the number one motoring organisation ‘giving power to electric drivers’ as it offers whole life support for drivers on the road to electrification, including:
- Award winning EV insurance which covers cables
- The opportunity to own a new EV without an up-front cost
- EV breakdown assistance, unlimited call-outs, provided by 100% of its Patrols
- A comprehensive EV MoT, service, maintenance, and repair package
- Providing customer assistance to approximately 11% of the public ChargePoint network
- The ability to buy and sell used EVs
- EV and e-scooter driver training
- More expert Patrols trained in electric vehicles than anyone else
Official record broken:
Lowest energy consumption driving from John O'Groats to Land's End in an electric car is 6.54 miles per kWh, achieved by Kevin Booker, Paul Clifton (both UK) and Fergal McGrath (Ireland) from 3-4 July 2021.