
12 Tips For Planning the Ultimate EV Road Trips
Planning an electric vehicle (EV) road trip requires careful preparation and understanding of the unique challenges associated with EV travel. From managing charging times and range anxiety to selecting the right vehicle features and utilizing efficient driving techniques, a well-thought-out plan ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey. This article outlines the key considerations and strategies to help you make the most of your next EV adventure, offering insights into the best practices for charging, route planning, and optimizing your vehicle’s capabilities.
12. Prepare for Potential Charging Time and Range Anxiety

When planning an EV road trip, it’s crucial to consider charging times and range anxiety. DC fast chargers can fill a battery to 80% in 20 minutes to an hour, but most plug-in hybrids and some electric cars may take longer. Familiarize yourself with your EV’s range capabilities and charging infrastructure to manage range anxiety effectively.
11. Check the Car’s Power Display During Charging

When charging your electric car, it’s essential to monitor the power display. This gauge shows the energy consumption rate and charge status. For example, the Kia EV6’s Power/Charge Gauge indicates energy usage and regenerative braking status. Understanding this display helps you optimize charging and driving efficiency.
10. Understand the Difference Between DC Fast Charging and Level 2 Charging

When planning a road trip with an electric car, it’s crucial to understand the charging options. DC Fast Charging can charge an EV to 80% in as little as 20 minutes, ideal for long journeys. In contrast, Level 2 charging takes several hours to fully charge a battery, making it better suited for overnight charging at home or during extended stops.
9. Ensure Access to Reliable Charging Apps and Maps

For a seamless EV road trip, reliable charging apps and maps are indispensable. Top recommendations include PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Electrify America, which offer extensive databases of charging stations, real-time updates, and compatibility filters. Additionally, apps like Zap-Map and A Better Route Planner (ABRP) provide smart route planning and navigation specifically tailored for electric vehicles, ensuring efficient charging stops along your route.
8. Evaluate DC Fast Charging Power and Sustained Performance

When choosing an electric car for road trips, consider the DC fast charging power it can handle. Newer vehicles can accept up to 270kW, significantly reducing charging times. For example, many cars can charge to 80% in under an hour using DC fast chargers. Research shows that frequent fast charging has minimal impact on battery degradation, making it a practical choice for long-distance driving.
7. Select Cars with Efficient Regenerative Braking

For long road trips, choose electric cars with advanced regenerative braking systems. These systems can recover up to 60-70% of kinetic energy lost during braking, extending the car’s range. Efficient regenerative braking is particularly beneficial in city driving with frequent stops, making it a crucial feature for road trips.
6. Consider Urban vs. Rural Charging Availability

When planning a road trip with an electric car, it’s crucial to consider the availability of charging stations along your route. Urban areas have significantly better access to public EV charging stations, with 60% of urban residents living less than a mile from the nearest charger, compared to 17% of rural Americans. This disparity can impact your travel plans, especially in rural “charging deserts” where public charging infrastructure is scarce. For instance, nearly 40% of U.S. counties lack a single public charger, making long-distance EV travel challenging in these areas.
5. Utilize Fast Charging Networks

For seamless road trips, leveraging fast charging networks is crucial. As of 2024, the U.S. has over 204,000 public EV charging ports, including nearly 12,500 DC fast chargers that can charge an EV to 80% in less than an hour. This extensive network ensures reliable and convenient charging options across the country.
4. Choose Models with High Range Capabilities

For road trips, electric cars with high range capabilities are essential. The Lucid Air Dream Edition tops the list with a range of up to 520 miles on a single charge, powered by a 113 kWh battery pack. Other notable models include the Tesla Model S Long Range with 405 miles and the Mercedes-Benz EQS with approximately 350 miles. These vehicles alleviate range anxiety, allowing for longer drives without frequent charging stops.
3. Combine Charging with Meal and Activity Breaks

When planning a road trip in an electric vehicle, it’s essential to combine charging stops with meal and activity breaks to maximize efficiency. Since EV charging can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes for an 80% charge at DC fast chargers, consider stopping at restaurants or shopping centers with charging stations. This allows you to recharge both your car and yourself simultaneously. Restaurants like Subway and Domino’s are already investing in EV charging stations to attract more customers.
2. Optimize Driving Techniques to Maximize Range

To get the most out of your electric car on road trips, adopt efficient driving habits. Use gentle acceleration, maintain steady speeds, and utilize regenerative braking by easing off the accelerator early. Avoid hard braking and use cruise control when possible. This can significantly improve your EV’s range.
1. Plan Ahead and Map Charging Stations

Before embarking on an electric vehicle road trip, it’s crucial to plan your route and identify charging stations along the way. Utilize tools like ChargeHub’s EV trip planner or PlugShare’s EV trip planner to map out charging stops and ensure a smooth journey. These platforms provide detailed maps and filters to help you find compatible charging stations and optimize your route.
Conclusion

Embarking on an EV road trip can be a rewarding experience when armed with the right knowledge and tools. By planning your route carefully, choosing vehicles with high range capabilities, and leveraging reliable charging networks and apps, you can minimize disruptions and focus on enjoying the journey. Incorporating stops that combine charging with meals or activities, along with adopting efficient driving habits, will further enhance your trip’s efficiency and enjoyment. Embrace the future of travel with confidence, knowing you have the insights and strategies needed for a successful EV road trip.