HERE'S HOW MUCH A ROOF BOX IMPACTS EV EFFICIENCY

EV Channels Review

This video details an efficiency test on a 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5 SEL AWD, focusing on the impact of a Thule XXL Motion XT roof box. The reviewer, Zach, conducted a 70 mph loop-style test, first without the box (only rails) and then with the box loaded. The initial test without the box yielded 2.6 miles per kilowatt hour, while the test with the loaded box achieved 2.3 miles per kilowatt hour. This represents a modest 11.5% decrease in efficiency, which the reviewer found to be less impactful than expected, especially considering the extreme wind conditions encountered during the test. While the roof box added noticeable wind noise, it did not significantly detract from the overall driving experience or the vehicle's ability to maintain highway speeds. The reviewer also noted some quirks with the car's drive assist system on specific road surfaces, independent of the roof box. Overall, the test suggests that while a roof box does reduce EV efficiency, the impact is manageable for practical use, particularly for family road trips where the added cargo space is beneficial.