Yes, they all are stunts if they don't even attempt to get a real-world scenario. Hypermiling by itself (let the interior get a little uncomfortable, always go at or below speed limit [but reasonably so], slow to accelerate, etc...) is valid, especially if a car is low on charge and the next charging stop is right on the edge of available range. Or for people who like to drive the most efficiently they can. But as Sean said above, people were amazed the car could go 600 miles. I really hope that had the caveat attached to it of "Tesla's range estimate is 310 miles, and we think you might be able to squeeze out 350 or 400 (or whatever) under super ideal driving conditions, but this 600 mile range is in no way practical and is only because we like to do stunts." It needs to be firmly implanted in their head. Because anyone who's not already an EV enthusiast who knows what these stunts are might think "well, surely I can get 500 miles then if I just drive reasonable".
For EV enthusiasts, we know about how variables affect range, and competing in range contests can be fun. To those who are buying their first EV ever, and have not driven one extensively, they don't what to expect. Look at the number of threads on all EV boards about "Why isn't my car getting the range that it should? It is 3 miles off!!!".
It's good these hypermiling threads can generate national attention to get the EV out there as something that goes more than 80 miles. But I'm not sure about have corporate comments concerning these kinds of numbers. It could even have bizarre effects. Politicians and bureaucrats aren't the sharpest knives in the drawer. If they use these kinds of numbers for planning (history is full of bad planning from junk data), it could actually harm EV adoption at a national level.
I can make an EV do a loop on the freeway without impeding traffic, and hit 50% over EPA rated highway numbers. I don't put that in my sig but I will discuss the conditions and methods I used to get there. ACC/cruise off, look far ahead, warm weather and tires, keep following distance at 2 seconds or better, stay in the right side lanes, cabin on FAN ONLY, no unnecessary weight, gentle regen and accel, avoid brakes, avoid full stops. Look for smooth areas of the lanes and following an 18 wheeler at a safe distance doesn't hurt.
These methods can be used by any EV to improve range considerably, even by new drivers who want to experiment with hypermiling or need to stretch their range. HOWEVER, one of the major advantages of EVs is their ability to have instant acceleration, so hypermiling negates one of the prime features of an EV. Even when you are hypermiling, never be afraid to use the pedal 100% if it makes for a safer drive.
