Electric cars on long trips: where to charge and how to plan the route

9 Oct

The introduction of electric cars into everyday use is gaining more and more popularity due to its environmental friendliness and high efficiency. However, one of the main concerns of electric car owners remains the question: “How to plan long trips in an electric car and where to charge during the route?” Let’s look at some useful tips for long-distance electric car travel.

Route planning:

Image source: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2020/may/04/five-best-online-mapping-apps-navigation-tools-run-ride-walk

Use electronic maps and applications: Your best friend when planning long trips in an electric car will be electronic maps and specialized applications that will help you plan the optimal route. Applications such as Google Maps or specialized applications for electric cars, such as PlugShare, take into account available charging stations and help you choose a route based on charging possibilities.

Split the route into stages: Consider splitting the route into several stages and charging at suitable stations during breaks in the journey. This will help prevent the stress of not charging enough and ensure your trip runs smoothly.

Selection of charging stations:

Image source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2022/03/05/apps-help-you-find-ev-charging-stations/9374981002/

Use apps to find charging stations: Before you leave, use maps and apps to find charging stations during your trip. These apps provide information on charging connector types, charging speed and cost.

Choose stations close to your route: Choose charging stations that are close to your route or destination. This will save time and effort.

Home charging station: Consider installing a home charging station that will make charging your car much easier while you’re at home.

Time planning:

Image source: https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=C1042&title=time-management-10-strategies-for-better-time-management

Plan for charging time: Remember that charging an electric car usually takes longer than filling up with gasoline. Add extra charging time when planning your route. This will allow you to use charging stations at your leisure and ensure a comfortable journey.

Charge immediately upon arrival: Immediately upon arrival at the charging station, connect the vehicle to charge. This will allow you to make the most of the downtime and go further with a full charge.

Safety margin:

Fully charged before departure: Consider charging your vehicle to full capacity before setting off on a long trip. This will allow you to overcome unexpected changes in the route or temporary problems with the availability of charging stations.

Necessary cables and adapters: Always carry the necessary cables and adapters for charging at different stations. Different locations may use different types of connectors, and this will help you be prepared for any situation.

With the right planning and attention to detail, an electric car can be a convenient and reliable means of transportation for long trips. With the development of the network of charging stations and technological improvements in battery systems, the prospects for electric car owners are becoming more and more attractive. With the support of modern applications and thoughtful planning, you can make long trips in your electric car without the slightest problem.

Source of information:

Electronic Maps and Apps: Source: “The Benefits of Using Electric Vehicle Navigation Apps.” PluginCars.com

Selection of charging stations:

Source: “How to Find the Right Charging Station for Your EV.” Energy.gov

Source: “Best Apps and Maps for Electric Car Charging.” Edmunds.com

Safety margin:

Source: “How Far Can You Drive Your Electric Vehicle on One Charge?” U.S. Department of Energy, link.

Source: “Understanding Electric Vehicle Range.” AAA