Tips and Tricks for that Long-Distance Trip in an Electric Vehicle

As electric vehicles become more and more popular, so do those long road trips. However, long-distance travel in an EV still gives people pause.

Anxiety over range and other issues is common, but as technology has advanced, they are not the dealbreakers they used to be.  Your EV road trip requires careful planning and a few strategic considerations to ensure a smooth journey. Whether you’re an EV novice or a seasoned driver, these tips will help you confidently tackle a long road trip.

Plan Your Route with Charging Stations in Mind

Unlike traditional vehicles, which can refuel at almost any exit, EVs require more thoughtful planning. Before you hit the road, map out your route using apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, or the built-in navigation system in your EV. These tools help you locate charging stations along your route.

Beyond finding charging stations, having the proper type of charger matters, too. Depending on the EV you’re driving, you may need an adapter. This is typically included with rental vehicles but is a good investment if you’ve bought the car yourself. With the EV industry standardizing, this will hopefully not be an issue we must worry about in a few years.

Consider the availability of fast-charging stations (Level 3) to minimize downtime. These stations can recharge your battery up to 80% in around 30 minutes, making them ideal for quick stops. Hit the bathroom and grab a bite to eat. Your car will be ready to roll by the time you get back.

Pro Tip: Stay at hotels with charging stations on site. This saves time and allows your car to get a full charge before you head out on your journey the next day.

Know Your Vehicle’s Range and Charging Time

Understanding your EV’s range on a full charge is crucial for long-distance travel. Keep in mind that factors such as speed, weather conditions, and the terrain can affect your range. Having a comfortable buffer in your range estimation is wise to account for any unexpected detours or delays.

As we all know, extreme temperatures play havoc on your car’s range. A study by AAA showed that in temperatures over 90 degrees, running the air conditioner can decrease your range by almost 20%. Almost double that for extreme cold weather, where batteries struggle the most. So, if you are planning that road trip through some tough conditions, anticipate these range issues and have a backup plan in place.

Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with your EV’s charging time at different types of chargers (Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3). Knowing how long it takes to charge can help you plan your stops more efficiently.

Optimize Your Driving Style

Efficient driving can significantly extend your vehicle’s range. Maintaining a steady speed, using regenerative braking, and avoiding rapid acceleration can help conserve battery power. Additionally, driving at lower speeds and using cruise control on highways can optimize your range.

Pro Tip: Use the eco-mode feature in your EV to further enhance energy efficiency during your trip.

Pack Smart and Light

The weight of your vehicle affects its energy consumption. When packing for your trip, try to minimize the load by taking only essentials. Heavy luggage can reduce your EV’s range, so it’s wise to pack light. And if you need a roof rack, find one of the aerodynamic options on the market.

Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with multiple passengers, distribute the weight evenly in the vehicle to avoid straining the battery.

Monitor Weather Conditions

As mentioned earlier, extreme temperatures can impact your EV’s battery performance. Cold weather can reduce range, while hot weather may require more energy for cooling systems. Plan your trip accordingly, and be prepared for potential range reductions in extreme weather. Downloading a weather app on your phone with up-to-the-minute information is a must.

Pro Tip: Pre-condition your vehicle’s cabin while it’s plugged in. This will save battery power by allowing you to start with an already comfortable cabin temperature generated from the grid.

Take Advantage of Charging Opportunities

You don’t need to wait until you’ve drained the battery to take advantage of a charging opportunity. Charge your EV every chance you get, whether you stop for food, rest, or do some sightseeing. This practice will keep your battery topped up and reduce range anxiety as you progress on your journey.

Pro Tip: Look for destinations that offer free or discounted charging for customers. Many hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers provide this as an added perk.

Prep the Car

Prepping your EV for the big road trip will not only save you time and money but also make it a little more enjoyable. Be sure the tires are inflated to the recommended PSI and your wiper fluid is filled. Pack essentials like an external phone charger, blankets, and road flares in case a breakdown occurs.

Keeping the car clean and smelling fresh can be tricky on a long road trip, but essential. No one wants to spend their trip smelling stale air, sweat, and that leftover McDonalds breakfast. Opening windows can increase drag and reduce range, so bringinh along a bottle of Febreeze or an air freshener can do wonders. For a little extra fun, create some custom air fresheners for the trip as a keepsake.

Cleaning along your journey is a must as well. Ditch the leftovers at every stop and don’t forget to vacuum up those crumbs every chance you get.

Pro Tip: Have your car professionally detailed before your trip. If you’re going to be spending hours behind the wheel, you might as well do it in a clean vehicle. It will boost everyone’s morale on the journey.

Consider Range Extenders

If you’re worried about the range or planning to travel through areas with limited charging infrastructure, consider using range extenders or portable chargers. These devices can provide an extra boost to your battery when needed, although they are typically more useful in emergency situations.

Costs vary significantly on these, but they may be a worthy investment if you plan to travel long distances regularly. While you might be tempted to go with a cheap aftermarket option, it’s best to stick to approved extenders.

Pro Tip: Always check the compatibility of any range extender with your specific EV model before purchasing.

Join EV Communities

EV owner communities can be a great resource for advice and support. Joining forums, social media groups, or local clubs can provide you with tips on where to find the best charging stations, how to optimize your vehicle’s performance, and other insider knowledge.

Pro Tip: Share your route and charging plans with the community. You might receive valuable insights from those who have already traveled the same path.

Don’t Get Scared Out of an Adventure

There are many horror stories about long-distance trips in an EV (often by fans of combustion engines). Most of these issues have been solved over the years or can be easily prevented with proper preparation. By planning your route carefully, optimizing your driving habits, and making the most of charging opportunities, you can experience the benefits of electric travel without the stress. Happy travels!