Overview

• In controlled trials at Penzing, six current models from VW, Tesla, Kia, Volvo, BYD and Nio did not stop at a displayed 0% state of charge.
• All vehicles issued layered visual and acoustic warnings and then curtailed power as charge dropped into the low single digits.
• A concealed reserve enabled roughly 15–20 kilometers of further travel under ideal conditions before performance tapered to shutdown.
• ADAC cautions that cold weather, steep grades or battery aging can sharply reduce or erase the buffer, and intentional deep discharge risks battery damage.
• If stranded, drivers should seek mobile charging or professional recovery, avoid towing on the vehicle’s own wheels, and note that running out on motorways can bring fines and a point in Flensburg.