Electric vehicles are known to offer environmental and financial benefits, so it’s no surprise that more and more people are gravitating toward them. However, their utility is often debated by those who enjoy road trips, as EVs come with limited driving ranges and long charging times. While this may be true for older EVs, today, a few tips can make it easier to plan and execute road trips in battery-powered cars.
1. Review the vehicle specs
Most modern vehicles can handle long drives, but their range can differ significantly. There may also be a difference in their charging times. So, before planning any road trip, one must take a moment to understand a few key features of their EV, whether owned, borrowed, or rented. One must review aspects such as its driving range, charging time, routing software, and fast-charging capabilities to determine whether it can handle a road trip.
2. Choose an EV-friendly destination
When planning a long road trip in an electric car, it is essential to consider the availability of chargers along the way. Some states, such as California, have an abundance of chargers, while other places do not. So, one must check the availability of chargers by city and interstate and use this information to map the route for their road trip.
3. Prepare the vehicle
Whether it is a gas or a battery-powered vehicle, travelers must always prepare their car before heading out on a road trip. This includes checking the oil levels, tire pressure, charging levels, and other important details to ensure a comfortable and long drive.
4. Check the route
Before going on a road trip, one must double-check the route and add the route to the car’s onboard navigation system. Then, one can use an EV routing app to learn about charger availability along the way. It is important to look for DC chargers instead of Level 2 chargers, as the former can help one save some time. This is also a good time to check out their reviews to assess the reliability of the charging stations.
The U.S. Department of Energy has a detailed map of the country’s charging network for electric vehicles on its website. This information can be found at the Alternative Fuels Data Center under Electric Vehicles Charging Station Locations.
5. Pick a hotel with an EV charging station
When choosing a place to stay, prioritize those with EV chargers and consider their costs. Such accommodations can allow one to charge their car overnight, especially if it has slow-charging capabilities. While making a decision, one must check the hotel’s reviews to see if their chargers are reliable and the cost of using them. Some hotels may only have one charging station or plug available, so one must have a backup plan ready while setting out on a road trip.
6. Avoid overloading the vehicle
Loading the vehicle up to the brim, even within the recommended carrying capacity, can significantly lower the EV’s range. On a road trip, this limited driving range can be a problem. So, one must be mindful when packing.
7. Keep an eye on speed
When on a road trip, driving at faster speeds can cause the EV’s battery to drain more rapidly than usual. So, this will increase the number of charging stops required along the way. This is why one must avoid speeding when driving in an EV.
8. Turn the AC on
Climate control is an important factor for a comfortable road trip in the winter and the summer months. To get the most out of the car’s range, one can turn the climate control system on while the car is still charging.
9. Charge to 80% when using fast chargers
With most fast chargers, the charging speeds reduce dramatically after the 80% mark. So, this is usually a good time to unplug the car and start driving to avoid wasting time on the road. One can leave the full charges for overnight charging spots such as those at home or the hotel.
10. Multitask
One must plan to use their time wisely on a road trip. While the EV is charging, they can grab food, go to the bathroom, restock their snack supply, stretch, shop, or spend some time outside. This is also a great way to take a break from the long drive.
Popular EVs to consider
When it comes to road trips, some electric vehicles are known to perform better than others.
Tesla Model 3
Priced at MSRP $38,990, the Tesla Model 3 is one of the most affordable vehicles offered by the brand, making it a decent option for those looking for a cost-effective partner for their road trips. Based on the chosen configuration, it offers a driving range between 272 and 341 miles.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Thanks to its stylish exterior and luxurious interiors, this EV is a standout option in its class. Depending on the trim chosen, it offers a smooth ride and a maximum driving range of 270 to 361 miles. One can get it for $37,500.
BMW i4
Selling for about $52,200, this BMW model is a sleek coupe-inspired sedan that fares well on road trips. The base trim offers a driving range of 301 miles.
Mercedes-Benz EQS Sedan
Those looking for a luxury electric car for road trips must check out the Mercedes-Benz EQS Sedan. While this can be expensive, given that it is priced at $104,400, this EV is known for its comfort and adequate cargo space. Its rear-wheel-drive model comes with a driving range of 350 miles and advanced technological and infotainment features.