Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time for a road trip. Whether you’re a seasoned EV driver or new to the game, planning your EV road trip can be exciting and daunting. But don’t sweat it, we’ve got your back. eV Power always strives to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From mapping out your mileage to finding the best charging spots, we’ve compiled some essential tips to help you get the most out of your EV road trip.
Map Out Your Charging Stops in Advance
Find chargers ahead of time, and use apps like eV Power, PlugShare, and Google Maps to plan your route & your stops before you hit the road. A good rule of thumb is 2 hours of driving and 20 minutes of charging. Enter your credit card info from the comfort of your home before you hit the road to reduce stress on your journey.
Drive to Maximize Your Range
Everything in an electric vehicle runs off the battery, so conserving battery power can help extend your range. This means avoiding the heater or AC when possible, easing up on the accelerator, and using regenerative braking to slow down.
Drive in HOV Lanes
See if you’re eligible to use HOV lanes for your road trip. Check the rules for the states you’ll be driving through on the U.S. Department of Energy website, you might need a permit but it might be worth it, as it can save you power and time getting to your next charging station.
Make Charging Stops Part of the Adventure
Getting your vehicle’s battery up to 80 percent or more typically takes less than an hour (if it’s a DC fast charger). It’s a good idea to combine charging with an enjoyable meal, walking the dog, or enjoying the view. Many EV drivers find that regular breaks leave them feeling more energized when they reach their destination, so try to embrace the breaks and tie them in with the adventure.
Always Have a Plan B
EV infrastructure is still growing, and chargers in remote areas can be unreliable. Don’t rely on just one charging station to get you from point A to B. Keep a 30-50 mile reserve of range so you can safely make it to another station if needed.
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