Can a Big Western Road Trip Be Done in an Electric Car?

By Alice Nichols

The increasing popularity of electric cars is not only due to their eco-friendliness but also their efficiency and low operational costs. However, many people are skeptical about whether an electric car can handle a big Western road trip. Let’s explore the feasibility of this idea.

Range Anxiety

One of the biggest concerns about electric cars is their range. People worry that they won’t be able to drive long distances without needing to recharge.

While this was a valid concern in the past, modern electric cars have a range that can surpass 300 miles on a single charge. For example, the Tesla Model S Long Range has a range of up to 402 miles.

Charging Infrastructure

Another concern for drivers is whether there are enough charging stations along the way. In fact, there are over 41,000 charging stations in North America alone, with over 16,000 of them being Tesla Superchargers. These stations are located along major highways and in cities and towns all over the country.

Planning Your Route

When planning your road trip in an electric car, it’s important to consider your route carefully to ensure you can make it to charging stations without running out of battery power. You’ll need to incorporate charging stops into your itinerary and plan for longer travel times due to charging breaks.

Benefits Of Driving An Electric Car On A Western Road Trip

While there may be some challenges to driving an electric car on a Western road trip, there are also several benefits:

  • No Gas Costs: Electric cars don’t require gasoline so you won’t have any fuel costs.
  • Limited Emissions: Electric cars produce fewer emissions compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles.
  • Smoother Ride: Electric cars have fewer moving parts than gas-powered cars, making for a smoother and quieter ride.
  • Tax Credits: Depending on the model of your electric car, you may be eligible for federal tax credits.

Conclusion

Driving an electric car on a Western road trip is definitely possible with careful planning and consideration. With increasing charging infrastructure and longer ranges on modern electric cars, the feasibility of this idea is becoming more realistic.

Plus, there are several benefits to driving an electric car that make it a worthwhile experience. So why not consider going electric on your next Western road trip?