Road trips have always held a special place in the hearts of travelers seeking the open road and adventure. For electric vehicle (EV) owners, the allure of hitting the highway is no different. However, one key consideration for an EV driver planning a long road trip is the availability and distribution of charging stations along the route. As EV adoption grows, so does the infrastructure supporting it, making it easier for travelers to embark on electrified journeys without the worry of running out of charge.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the rise of EV-friendly road trip routes, key considerations for planning an electric vehicle journey, and some of the best EV-friendly road trip routes in North America and Europe. We’ll also discuss the types of charging stations available along these routes and tips for making your EV road trip stress-free and enjoyable.
1. The Rise of EV-Friendly Travel Routes
One of the primary concerns for prospective EV owners is “range anxiety”—the fear that their vehicle will run out of charge before they reach the next charging station. Fortunately, advancements in charging infrastructure are helping to alleviate these concerns. Governments, private companies, and automakers have invested heavily in creating networks of charging stations, particularly along major highways and scenic routes frequented by road-trippers.
In many regions, charging networks are becoming as commonplace as gas stations. Charging infrastructure companies like Tesla Supercharger, Electrify America, EVgo, and others are rapidly expanding their networks, ensuring that drivers can charge their EVs conveniently and quickly along popular travel routes. As a result, many routes have become fully “EV-friendly,” allowing drivers to confidently travel long distances without worrying about where to charge.
Key takeaway:
The growth of well-distributed charging networks has made long-distance travel in electric vehicles more practical, allowing EV drivers to enjoy road trips without range anxiety.
2. Planning an EV Road Trip: Key Considerations
Before setting out on an EV road trip, it’s essential to plan carefully to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Charging Station Availability:
The first and most important factor is the availability of charging stations along your route. Not all routes have equal charging infrastructure, so you need to ensure that your path has enough charging stations to support your vehicle’s range. Popular charging networks, such as Tesla’s Supercharger network or third-party networks like ChargePoint and Ionity, provide apps or websites that allow you to view station locations and availability in real-time.
Type of Charging Stations:
Not all charging stations are created equal. Level 1 and Level 2 chargers offer slower charging speeds and are more suited to overnight stops, whereas DC Fast Chargers (such as Tesla Superchargers and Electrify America’s fast chargers) can recharge your vehicle in as little as 30 minutes, depending on your car’s battery capacity. When planning, prioritize routes with fast-charging options to minimize downtime on your trip.
Vehicle Range and Charging Stops:
Before embarking on your trip, be familiar with your vehicle’s range on a full charge. Different EVs have varying ranges, and you should plan to stop for a charge when your vehicle reaches about 20% to 30% battery capacity. Tools like A Better Route Planner (ABRP) and PlugShare can help you map out your route based on your vehicle’s range and charging station locations.
Route Conditions:
The terrain and road conditions on your route can affect your EV’s efficiency. For instance, driving uphill or in cold weather may reduce your range more quickly than driving on flat roads or in milder climates. Make sure to account for such conditions when planning charging stops.
Hotel and Destination Charging:
Look for accommodations that offer destination charging—hotels, motels, and resorts that provide Level 2 chargers for overnight guests. This allows you to wake up to a fully charged battery without needing to stop first thing in the morning.
Key takeaway:
When planning an EV road trip, you must consider charging station availability, the type of chargers, your vehicle’s range, and destination charging options for a hassle-free experience.
3. Top EV-Friendly Road Trip Routes in North America
As electric vehicle charging networks expand, some of North America’s most iconic road trip routes have become EV-friendly. Here are a few of the best road trip routes for EV drivers:
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most scenic road trip routes in the world, stretching along the breathtaking California coastline. From Los Angeles to San Francisco, the PCH offers stunning ocean views, cliffs, and redwood forests.
For EV travelers, California is home to one of the most extensive charging networks in the United States. Tesla Superchargers, ChargePoint, and EVgo stations are plentiful along the route, especially in coastal cities like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey. Most stops also feature restaurants and amenities, allowing you to recharge both your car and yourself before continuing your journey.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina, USA)
For those looking for a more mountainous adventure, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a stunning 469-mile drive through the Appalachian Mountains. The route winds through Virginia and North Carolina, offering picturesque views of rolling hills, forests, and national parks.
The charging infrastructure along the Blue Ridge Parkway is growing steadily, with several Level 2 charging stations located near popular tourist spots, such as Asheville, NC, and Roanoke, VA. Although fewer fast-charging stations are available compared to urban routes, this leisurely drive allows for longer, scenic charging stops while you explore local attractions.
3. Route 66 (USA)
One of the most famous road trip routes in the U.S., Route 66, is now becoming more accessible to EV drivers. Spanning from Chicago to Santa Monica, this iconic route crosses multiple states and takes drivers through historic towns, desert landscapes, and quirky roadside attractions.
Tesla’s Supercharger network covers much of Route 66, particularly in larger cities like St. Louis, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff. Other fast-charging networks, such as Electrify America, also provide coverage in key areas, making it possible to enjoy this classic American road trip in an EV.
Key takeaway:
Several iconic North American road trip routes, including the Pacific Coast Highway, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Route 66, now offer robust charging infrastructure, making them accessible for EV travelers.
4. Top EV-Friendly Road Trip Routes in Europe
Europe is home to some of the most advanced EV charging infrastructures in the world. Many European countries have embraced electric vehicles, creating seamless road trip routes for EV drivers.
1. The Alps Road Trip (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland)
A road trip through the Alps offers breathtaking mountain landscapes, quaint villages, and world-class scenery. Starting in Germany and winding through Austria and Switzerland, this journey is perfect for EV enthusiasts looking for a combination of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Charging stations are plentiful in Alpine regions, particularly in Germany and Switzerland, where fast-charging networks like Ionity and Fastned are well-established. EV drivers can stop at ski resorts, mountain lodges, and charming towns to charge while enjoying the stunning Alpine views.
2. The Ring Road (Iceland)
Iceland’s Ring Road is one of the most unique and unforgettable road trip routes in the world. Circling the entire island, this route takes drivers past dramatic volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, glaciers, and geysers.
Iceland is rapidly expanding its charging infrastructure, with ON Power and Tesla Superchargers available in key locations along the Ring Road. Charging stations are strategically located near natural landmarks, allowing drivers to explore Iceland’s otherworldly beauty while ensuring their EV stays powered.
3. French Riviera Road Trip (France)
For a glamorous road trip experience, the French Riviera offers luxury, sun, and scenic Mediterranean views. From Cannes to Nice and Monaco, this route takes drivers along the Mediterranean coastline, passing through picturesque towns and upscale resorts.
France’s EV charging network is extensive, with numerous fast-charging stations along the southern coast. Travelers can enjoy the Riviera’s beauty, from beaches to vineyards, with easy access to charging stations through networks like Ionity and Allego.
Key takeaway:
Europe offers stunning EV-friendly road trip routes, including the Alps, Iceland’s Ring Road, and the French Riviera, all supported by well-distributed charging stations.
5. Tips for a Stress-Free EV Road Trip
To make your EV road trip as enjoyable as possible, here are a few final tips:
- Pre-plan charging stops: Use apps like PlugShare, A Better Route Planner, or Tesla’s navigation system to plan your charging stops along the route.
- Monitor your battery: Always keep an eye on your battery level and try to plan stops when you’re at 20%-30% charge to avoid running low unexpectedly.
- Take advantage of downtime: Use charging stops to explore local attractions, grab a meal, or stretch your legs. Many charging stations are located near restaurants, cafes, and scenic spots.
- Have backup options: If a charging station is occupied or out of order, it’s always good to have a backup charging location in mind.
Key takeaway:
Pre-planning, monitoring your battery, and utilizing charging downtime for sightseeing can make your EV road trip smooth and enjoyable.
Conclusion
With the rapid expansion of charging networks, EV-friendly travel routes are more accessible than ever. From the Pacific Coast Highway in California to the French Riviera in Europe, EV drivers can now explore some of the world’s most beautiful road trip routes without worrying
Hi
😇
hi