Are you considering taking an electric car on a road trip? It’s a valid question as electric cars are becoming more popular and the charging network is expanding. Here are some things you need to know before hitting the road.
Charging Infrastructure
The first thing to consider is the availability of charging stations on your route. You can use apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint to find charging stations near you. Plan your route accordingly, keeping in mind the range of your electric car and the distance between charging stations.
Types of Charging Stations
There are three types of charging stations: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging. Level 1 chargers require a standard household outlet and take longer to charge.
Level 2 chargers require a special charging station and provide faster charging times than level 1 chargers. DC fast chargers provide the fastest charging times but are less common than level 1 and level 2 chargers.
Charging Times
Charging times vary depending on the type of charger you use and your car’s battery capacity. On average, it takes about 30 minutes to charge an electric car up to 80% using a DC fast charger. However, it can take hours to fully charge using a level 1 or level 2 charger.
Route Planning
When planning your route, consider factors such as distance between charging stations, terrain, weather conditions, and traffic congestion. These factors can impact your driving range and therefore affect your ability to reach the next available charging station.
Battery Management
To maximize the range of your electric car, there are certain things you can do such as turning off climate control when not needed, driving at moderate speeds, avoiding excessive idling or quick acceleration, and minimizing use of electrical accessories like headlights or heated seats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking an electric car on a road trip is definitely possible, but it requires careful planning and consideration of charging infrastructure, route planning, and battery management. With the expanding charging network and increasing popularity of electric cars, it’s becoming easier than ever to take an eco-friendly road trip. Happy travels!