How Do You Charge an Electric Car on a Road Trip?

By Robert Palmer

Electric cars have been gaining popularity around the world due to their eco-friendliness and low maintenance costs. However, one of the major concerns that people have when it comes to electric cars is their range and how they can charge them on a long road trip. In this article, we will discuss how you can charge your electric car on a road trip.

Plan Ahead

The first thing you need to do before embarking on a long road trip in your electric car is to plan your route carefully. You need to know where charging stations are located along your route so that you don’t run out of power in the middle of nowhere. You can use various apps or websites like PlugShare, ChargeHub, and EVgo to find charging stations along your route.

Types of Chargers

There are three types of chargers available for electric cars – Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast charging. Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and can take up to 12 hours to fully charge an electric car.

Level 2 chargers require a special installation at home or at a public charging station and can take up to 8 hours to fully charge an electric car. DC fast charging is the fastest type of charger available and can charge an electric car from 0% to 80% in just 30 minutes.

Charging Etiquette

When you arrive at a charging station, it’s important to follow some basic charging etiquette rules. First, make sure that the charging station is compatible with your car’s make and model.

Then, park your car in the designated spot and plug it in properly. Make sure that you don’t leave your car unattended for too long as other drivers may be waiting for their turn.

Battery Management

To extend your electric car’s range, it’s important to manage your battery properly. Avoid rapid acceleration and heavy braking as it can drain your battery faster. Also, consider turning off unnecessary electrical features like air conditioning and radio to conserve power.

Conclusion

Electric cars are a great choice for road trips, provided you plan ahead and know where charging stations are located. With proper charging etiquette and battery management, you can ensure that your electric car is ready for the next leg of your journey. Happy road tripping!