11 Essential Tips for a Stress-Free EV Road Trip

Considering a road trip in an electric vehicle (EV) but worried about running out of charge? With advancements in charging infrastructure and faster-charging vehicles, EV road trips are becoming more accessible. Here’s how to ensure a smooth journey without the dreaded range anxiety.

1. Choose the Right Vehicle: Not all EVs are created equal. Models like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Kia EV6 offer rapid charging, resuming your journey in under 20 minutes. However, options like the Chevy Bolt take longer. Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network and routing software are also top-tier choices for road trippers.

2. Research Your Destination: Charging station availability varies greatly by location. States like California have a dense network, whereas places like Wyoming might present challenges. Use tools to map out charger locations along your route to ensure you won’t be left without power.

3. Prepare Your EV: Before you set off, check your tire pressure (no oil check needed!) and charge your vehicle to 100%. This is one of the few times when a full battery is recommended to maximize your range.

4. Plan Your Route: Utilize on-board navigation systems or apps like A Better Route Planner to identify available fast chargers along your path. Checking charger reliability through reviews can also save headaches.

5. Consider Hotel Charging: Overnight charging at hotels is convenient but research the reliability and cost of these chargers. Some might be free, while others could cost as much as a fast charger.

6. Pack Smart: Keep your load light. Overloading your EV can significantly decrease its range, especially if towing.

7. Watch Your Speed: Driving faster increases energy consumption. Manage your speed to reduce the number of charging stops.

8. Use Air Conditioning Wisely: While climate control does affect range, it’s less impactful in the summer. Optimize usage by cooling your car while it’s charging.

9. Stay Alert to Your Car’s Needs: Pay attention to your EV’s range indicators and charge when needed, even if it’s sooner than you planned.

10. Optimize Charging Time: At fast charging stations, charge up to 80% to take advantage of higher charging speeds. If charging overnight or at slower chargers, it’s okay to reach 100%.

11. Multitask During Charging: Plan your charging stops around meals, bathroom breaks, or shopping to make them more enjoyable and efficient.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of EV travel—lower costs and reduced emissions—without sacrificing the joy of the journey.