Can an Electric Car Go on a Road Trip?

By Anna Duncan

Are you considering taking your electric car on a road trip? You’re not alone.

Many people wonder if an electric vehicle (EV) can travel long distances without running out of power. The short answer is yes, but there are some important factors to consider before hitting the road.

Range Anxiety
One of the biggest concerns for EV drivers is range anxiety, or the fear of running out of power before reaching your destination. Unlike gasoline-powered cars, where you can fill up at any gas station, charging an EV requires planning and research.

To avoid range anxiety, it’s essential to plan your route carefully and identify charging stations along the way. There are many websites and apps that can help you find charging stations, including PlugShare and ChargePoint.

Tip: When planning your route, choose a destination that has multiple charging options nearby in case one is occupied or out of service.

Charging Times
Another factor to consider is the time it takes to charge an EV. Unlike filling up a gas tank, which takes only a few minutes, charging an EV can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the charger type and battery capacity.

There are three types of chargers: Level 1 (120 volts), Level 2 (240 volts), and DC fast chargers (480 volts). Level 1 chargers are the slowest but most common type of charger found at homes or workplaces.

Level 2 chargers are faster than Level 1 but require installation in a garage or parking space. DC fast chargers are the fastest but least common type of charger found along highways or major routes.

Tip: If you plan on taking long road trips frequently, consider investing in a Level 2 home charger for faster and more convenient charging.

Battery Health
The health of your EV’s battery is also crucial for long-distance travel. Over time, lithium-ion batteries used in EVs can degrade, reducing their capacity and range. The rate of degradation depends on factors such as temperature, charging frequency, and depth of discharge.

To maintain your battery’s health, avoid letting it fully discharge or sit at 100% charge for extended periods. Instead, aim to keep your battery charged between 20% and 80% capacity. Additionally, avoid exposing your EV to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods.

Tip: Some EVs come with a feature called “range mode” that conserves battery power by limiting acceleration and top speed. This feature can be useful for long road trips where maximizing range is crucial.

Conclusion
In summary, an electric car can go on a road trip with proper planning and consideration of factors such as range anxiety, charging times, and battery health. With the growing number of charging stations along highways and major routes, taking an EV on a road trip is becoming more feasible than ever before.

Tip: Don’t forget to pack a portable charger in case of emergencies or unexpected delays!