Electric vehicles have the unique ability to improve performance using small software updates delivered over-the-air, often times for little or no cost. These updates usually fix software bugs, but can also offer major performance or efficiency upgrades. For example, the 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 just received an update that significantly improves range compared to the outgoing 2021 model. Last year's ID.4 Pro could travel 260 miles on a charge, but the EPA now rates the 2022 version at 280 miles, a notable 20-mile increase.

Stepping up to the Pro S RWD drops the range to 268 miles, up from the previous 250-mile range. The Pro AWD is now rated at 251 miles of range (up from 249 miles) while the Pro S AWD can travel 245 miles (up from 240 miles). Though the AWD models see a less significant range improvement, longer range is still a positive.

If you want a more detailed breakdown, the ID.4 Pro RWD will now achieve 121/102/112 MPGe city/highway/combined. These ratings are up 14, 11, and 13 MPGe, respectively. Meanwhile, the Pro S RWD gets 115/97/106 MPGe, improvements of 11, 8, and 9 MPGe. As expected based on the lower range increases, the AWD models see smaller efficiency improvements across the board compared to the RWD models.

As a reminder, all ID.4 models come with an 82-kWh battery. The RWD models have a single rear electric motor delivering 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD models add a second motor in the front, combining to produce 295 hp and 339 lb-ft.

In addition to the range and efficiency improvements, the ID.4 can charge quicker for the 2022 model year. VW increased the max charging speed from 125 kW to 135 kW, which will help owners replenish their batteries with less time spent plugged in. All ID.4 models sold now include unlimited 30-minute fast charging sessions at Electrify America. Later this year through another OTA update, the ID.4 will receive a Plug and Charge feature that allows the car to recognize the charging station without any additional involvement from the driver.