Tips for Great EV Road Trips
Americans love to drive and there’s nothing like a long road trip with your significant other or family to see the glories of this country.
With many modern EVs now offering 250 miles of range or more on a full charge, faster charging ability, and a variety of body styles, road tripping in an EV has never been easier.
Just like with a gas car, road-tripping in an EV requires preparation, especially to prevent EV range anxiety, the worry of running out of charge between stops.
Here’s a list of tips to help you get the most of your EV road trip.
Know Your EV
One of the most important things you can do to prepare is to get to know your EV, especially if it’s new to you. Not all EVs are created equal. Range, efficiency, and charging speed, for example, are factors that vary greatly between EVs and can drastically impact your experience on a road trip.
Understanding how fast your EV charges on a Level 3 DC fast charger is critical. For example, a Chevrolet Bolt only has a peak charging rate of 55kW, but a Hyundai Ioniq 5 peaks at over 200kW. This means that an Ioniq 5 can charge from 10-80% in about 18-30 minutes, whereas the Bolt could take well over one hour on the same charger. So, on a road trip, even though both cars have over 250 miles of range, you’ll be at each charger much longer with the Bolt, potentially extending your overall road trip. One of the best EV charging tips is to test your vehicle at different Level 3 chargers before your trip, noting how quickly it charges from 10-80%.
For charging, know which connector your EV has. This will make it easier when planning your charging route. Familiarize yourself with the three levels of charging, and how long your EV takes to charge on each level.
EVs are more efficient at slower speeds in the city than on the highway. Before your road trip, observe your EV’s efficiency on the highway and how your range and efficiency vary based on your speed and acceleration.
Consider the weather when estimating your driving range for your trip. Summer driving can be more efficient, but extreme heat can also reduce range, especially when using the A/C. In winter, snowy and windy conditions can also impact range. EVs can lose up to 30% of range in cold temperatures, depending on the EV and winter conditions. Before you set off, understand how the weather will impact your range and efficiency.
Choosing the Route
There are various ways to plan your route. With an EV and the current charging infrastructure, look for routes that offer you the most public charging options, while providing a reasonable arrival time. Strategically selecting routes with ample charging options significantly reduces EV range anxiety and makes your journey smoother.
Use apps, like PlugShare, to help you find the best routes with charging locations. You can also look at the charger ratings to help you determine the locations of reliable chargers. If you have a non-Tesla, you can use the vehicle’s navigation. If you have a Tesla, you can determine the route based on the Tesla app or through the vehicle. In all cases, it will map out your route, arrival time, charging duration, and the battery state of charge that you will arrive at and depart. Despite the method you use to determine your route, always have a backup plan. This will help you prepare for situations like line-ups and inoperative chargers.
Since you’ll likely want to take a break during charging sessions, look for routes and chargers with amenities so that you can plan your charging stops together with meals, shopping, activities, etc. Looking for hotels with on-site chargers or nearby chargers is always a great idea. Even if they’re Level 2 chargers that charge slower, you’ll be able to charge while you sleep.
Download Apps
Regardless of the brand of EV that you have, downloading apps like PlugShare, A Better Route Planner, and Chargeway will add to your arsenal of route and charger planning.
There are a variety of charging networks in America, such as ChargePoint, EVgo, and Electrify America. Unfortunately, they still operate on their own app and payment system. Although this will change in the future, the reality is that you’ll need each network’s app with your payment and balance up to date. It’s also wise to have your travel companion download the app in case you’re unable to access through your phone.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Just like a road trip with a gas car, think about what you’re bringing. Leaving heavier or discretionary items at home can help you save weight, thereby helping to increase range and efficiency.
Checking the basics like tire pressure, washer fluid, and tire conditions, are just as important in an EV. Ensuring proper tire pressure and condition can help increase your EV’s range and safety on your trip. Don’t forget things like an emergency kit, basic tools, first aid kits, and extra clothes. Note down the automaker’s roadside assistance details if your EV is under warranty. If you have an older EV, make sure that your roadside assistance membership, like AAA, is up to date. If you’re renting the EV, familiarize yourself with their roadside instructions and rental company locations.
Make sure that you pack the charging essentials. With the industry moving to the NACS standard and automakers having access to the Tesla Supercharger network, bring the recommended adapters so that you can take full advantage of the various networks. Check if your EV comes with a dual voltage charging cable. If not, bringing one will allow the option of charging either at 120V or 240V with the appropriate socket. This is a great option if you’re at a campsite and need a charge.
While You’re Driving
Always aim for efficiency to maximize your range, especially on the highway.
Don’t be in a rush to get somewhere. Increasing your speed and acceleration dramatically reduces your efficiency and range. It will also increase your overall time due to more frequent charging stops. Keeping a steady speed within the speed limit maximizes efficiency and range. Use things like cruise control, eco mode, and even HOV lanes if possible.
In the summer, drive with the windows and sunroof closed to minimize drag on the highway. Don’t max out you A/C as it will work harder and reduce your range. In the winter, don’t max out your heater and instead use the heated seats and steering wheel.
Charging on the Go
With millions of EVs on American roads today, keep charging etiquette in mind while you’re charging.
Unless absolutely necessary to get to your next stop, charge your EV to 80%. It will not only be faster, but also better for your battery. Believe it or not, DC charging from 80-100% will likely take longer than recharging from 10-80%. When possible, try to arrive at the charger at the lowest state of charge possible. Here's a a valuable EV charging tip, charging is fastest when you plug in around 10% battery, reducing your overall wait time.
Don’t forget to unplug when your EV has reached the set state of charge, especially if the charging station is busy with lineups. Always unplug your EV and move it out of the charger spot for the next person. If you’re charging a non-Tesla at a Tesla Supercharger, it’s often best practice to charge at a distant charger since most non-Tesla vehicles end up taking two parking spots due to the short charging cable.
Look for chargers with amenities. Charging could take some time, especially if you have to wait for the charger. Look at the downtime as an opportunity to do something else such as eat meals, bathroom breaks, stretching, shopping, etc.
While you’re charging, heat or cool the cabin at the same time. This ensures that you maximize the range by reducing the impact of your climate control while you’re driving.
Range Anxiety Busters
- Charge up to 80% for faster stops.
- Always have a backup charger location.
- Keep speed steady on highways.
- Pre-condition your EV cabin while charging.
Enjoy the Journey, Skip the Stress
Road trips in an EV are great. They can take a bit more planning and preparation than one in a gas car, mainly due to the nature of EVs and the current charging network. With the right planning and preparation, you can experience an enjoyable and stress-free road trip in your electric vehicle.
⚡ Next Stops on Your EV Road Trip
🟢 Most EV-Friendly Places in America
Discover top destinations for smooth, stress-free EV travel.
🟢 Overview of Electric Car Charging
Understand charging options and speeds to simplify your next journey.
🟢 Best Practices for EV Battery Care
Protect your battery’s health to keep your EV performing at its peak.
Want EVen More Travel Inspiration?
Check out this guide highlighting America’s Most Iconic Road Trips as Traveled by an EV—full of helpful charging tips, scenic stops, and route recommendations tailored specifically for electric adventurers.
