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Ultimate EV range test declares Tesla Model 3, Ford Mach-E, as endurance kings

Credit: NAF

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The Norwegian Automotive Federation (NAF) has published the results of its recent round of electric vehicle range tests. This time around, the NAF tested the endurance of 21 new EVs by driving them until their batteries were fully drained. Based on the results, it appears that the Tesla Model 3 is still king, though the Ford Mustang Mach-E is not far behind. 

As noted by the NAF, its test was aimed at measuring the real-world range of electric cars based on how they are used in real-world conditions. Each vehicle started the test with a 100% charge, and every car started cold, with no preheating of either the cabin or batteries. The cars were then driven in eco mode (or equivalent), and regenerative braking was used as necessary. Ordinary drivers also operated the vehicles to simulate everyday use. 

The route of the test took the 21 vehicles through city roads, country roads, and motorways at speeds of 60 km/h and 110 km/h (37 and 68 mph). Vehicles with the longest range were also taken through two mountain passes that involved a climb of up to 1,000 meters. The overall results, needless to say, were quite interesting. 

The NAF used an updated Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD, which had its WLTP range updated to 614 km (381 miles). The vehicle went the furthest among its peers, driving a full 654.9 km (406 miles) before running out of charge and stopping on the side of the road. The Ford Mustang Mach-E RWD Long Range was not far behind, driving 617.9 km (383 miles) before stopping. That was only 37 km (23 miles) shorter than the Tesla Model 3. 

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Inasmuch as this is impressive for the Mach-E Long Range, however, it should be noted that the all-electric crossover had a larger 88 kWh battery pack compared to the Model 3’s 75 kWh battery. The Mach-E also had an RWD configuration, which is generally more efficient than the Model 3’s dual motor setup. If one were to compare the Mustang Mach-E AWD Long Range with the Model 3 Long Range AWD, the gap between the two vehicles increases to well over 100 km (62 miles), with the Ford crossover driving 551.6 km (342 miles) before fully draining its battery. 

Nevertheless, the Ford Mustang Mach-E deserves recognition for going the distance in the NAF’s extensive range test. This is especially notable considering that the vehicle is a crossover, and is thus larger than the Model 3. It does, if any, show that Ford’s first real attempt at a serious electric car has a lot of potential to be a successful vehicle on its own. 

Apart from the Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD and the Ford Mustang Mach-E RWD Long Range, the NAF’s test also involved the Model 3 Standard Range Plus, the Mach-E Long Range AWD, Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S, BMW iX3, Volkswagen ID.4 1st Plus, Audi e-Tron GT, Skoda Enyaq High + Suite, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Mercedes-Benz EQA, Polestar 2, Volvo XC40 Recharge, Xpeng G3, Volkswagen ID.3 1st Plus, Citroën ë-C4, Opel Mokka-e, Fiat 500, Honda e, Mazda MX-30, and the Hyundai Kona Electric. 

Check out the NAF’s full report on its ultimate EV range test here

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Simon is an experienced automotive reporter with a passion for electric cars and clean energy. Fascinated by the world envisioned by Elon Musk, he hopes to make it to Mars (at least as a tourist) someday. For stories or tips--or even to just say a simple hello--send a message to his email, simon@teslarati.com or his handle on X, @ResidentSponge.

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President Trump touts new Air Force One with Musk technology

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Credit: Air Force

President Donald Trump unveiled an upgraded Boeing 747-8 at Joint Base Andrews on June 19, 2026, describing the Qatar-gifted aircraft as an interim Air Force One equipped with advanced communications systems, including Starlink, Elon Musk’s SpaceX satellite internet service.

The plane, valued at around $400 million and modified for presidential use, serves as a bridge until the delayed VC-25B replacements arrive. Trump highlighted its luxury features and new technology during remarks to service members.

Trump stated:

“We have communication equipment up there that nobody’s ever seen before. It’s the highest level and, uh, including Starlink. My friend Elon is going to be very happy, but, uh, Starlink and we have, uh, four or five different sets of double and triple communications like people haven’t seen.”

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He added:

“And it represents what can happen with hard work, innovation, and aggressive timelines because we did this quickly and yet there’s never been communication like is on this plane.”

The aircraft features a redesigned red, white, and blue livery and has been outfitted with Starlink satellite connectivity alongside other secure systems.

Trump praised the plane’s uniqueness, calling it among the world’s most luxurious. The gift from Qatar and subsequent modifications have drawn attention, with the jet positioned as a solution for presidential travel. It is expected to support operations, including potential ceremonial roles such as Fourth of July flyovers.

The event marked the formal introduction of the converted jet, which will help maintain capabilities while the primary Air Force One fleet undergoes modernization. Defense observers note the inclusion of commercial satellite technology like Starlink as part of efforts to ensure resilient communications, crucial to keep the country running as the President is in the sky.

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President Trump’s comments underscored appreciation for rapid upgrades and innovation in equipping the aircraft. The plane remains a U.S. government asset and is slated for eventual transfer related to presidential library purposes after its service.

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Tesla Cybercab launch is imminent after latest sighting at Giga Texas

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Credit: Joe Tegtmeyer | X

Tesla just gave what is perhaps its biggest signal yet that the launch of the Cybercab, its autonomous ride-hailing-geared car, is imminent.

The Cybercab has been spotted outside of Gigafactory Texas in massive numbers over the past few days, with hundreds of units being stored on property just days after the vehicle received a Certificate of Conformity from the EPA.

Today, things were a bit different.

Cybercabs spotted on Giga Texas property today had an addition: a Cybercab decal on the side, reminiscent of the “Robotaxi” ones that were placed on Model Ys just as the company launched its ride-sharing platform about a year ago.

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Giga Texas drone operator Joe Tegtmeyer noticed the change today:

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Tesla could be signaling that the Cybercab is preparing to enter the Robotaxi fleet in the coming weeks or months with this move. It seems more symbolic than anything; Tesla is ready to throw Cybercabs in the ride-hailing platform just as it did with Model Ys last year.

The addition of the Certificate of Conformity awarded to the Cybercab is another major factor working to Tesla’s advantage. The company now has permission from the EPA to allow the vehicle to operate on public roads and enter the chain of commerce. It’s officially street legal.

Tesla Cybercab specs revealed: range, curb weight, range ratings, and more

The big question that remains is whether Tesla will be able to operate the car without a safety monitor, especially considering it plans to put the car out there without a steering wheel or pedals. With the Cybercab only having a seating capacity of two, it is hard to believe Tesla will even consider putting a Safety Monitor in the car.

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It did recently self-certify as Level 4 and has the ability to operate driverless vehicles in the State of Texas under a law that took effect on May 28. You can read more about that here:

Tesla’s Robotaxi dreams just took a massive step toward reality

We’d imagine Cybercabs will be on the roads as soon as July, but August will likely be a better estimate of when the car will be entered into the Cybercab fleet. It all depends at where Tesla is, as they’ve truly prioritized safety with the rollout of the Robotaxi platform.

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Elon Musk says this part of Tesla ‘makes no sense’

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Justin Pacheco, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Elon Musk has publicly questioned Moody’s credit assessments following the rating agency’s decision to assign SpaceX a Baa1 investment-grade rating, two notches above Tesla’s Baa3. The comments came amid discussions comparing the two companies’ financial profiles.

SpaceX earned its first-time Baa1 rating with a stable outlook from Moody’s. The agency highlighted the company’s leadership in orbital launches, the growing recurring revenue from its Starlink satellite network, strong vertical integration, U.S. government contracts, and emerging opportunities in AI infrastructure.

These factors were cited as supporting robust cash flows, margin expansion, and financial flexibility.

Musk responded directly: “Tesla’s credit rating is ridiculously low tbh,” and added, “Yeah, makes no sense. Tesla has over $40B in cash, no debt, and is consistently profitable!” His remarks underscored Tesla’s balance sheet strength and profitability at a time when many traditional automakers continue to report losses in the shift to electric vehicles.

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Tesla maintains a leading position in the global EV market, with diversification into energy and storage, battery technology, and robotics through projects like Optimus. Recent financial updates show the company generated positive free cash flow of $1.4 billion in Q1 2026, supported by operating cash flow of $3.9 billion. Cash and short-term investments stood at approximately $44.7 billion.

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Moody’s has affirmed Tesla’s Baa3 issuer rating with a stable outlook in periodic reviews, acknowledging the company’s EV leadership, technology strengths, including AI for autonomous vehicles, solid profitability, and strong liquidity.

Tesla (TSLA) scores Baa3 Moody’s rating for ‘stable’ outlook

However, the agency has also noted challenges in the automotive segment and expectations for margin pressures.

Musk’s critique highlights a common debate about how traditional rating methodologies apply to high-growth, capital-intensive technology companies. SpaceX benefits from long-term government-backed contracts and diversified, recurring revenue streams, while Tesla’s valuation reflects heavy investment in future technologies such as autonomy and robotics.

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Both ratings remain investment-grade, yet the one-notch difference has fueled online discussion about potential inconsistencies in evaluating innovative firms.

The exchange comes as SpaceX explores financing options following its recent valuation milestones, while Tesla continues executing on its multi-year roadmap. Musk’s pointed response serves as a reminder that credit ratings, though influential for borrowing costs, represent one lens through which markets assess corporate strength—and that company leaders often view their financial positions through the lens of long-term innovation and cash generation rather than short-term risk metrics alone.

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