As electric cars continue to rise in popularity, one of the biggest concerns among drivers is range anxiety. After all, unlike gas stations, EV charging stations aren’t as widely distributed or readily available. This can make long road trips stressful, especially if you’re not sure when or where you’ll be able to recharge your vehicle. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks for planning your electric car route to avoid long charging times and reach your destination with ease.

1. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time

The key to avoiding long charging times is to plan your route ahead of time. Before hitting the road, make sure to do your research and map out charging stations along your route. You can use apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, or EVgo to help plan your trip and find EV charging stations in your area. By doing this, you can make sure that you have enough charging stops along the way and avoid getting stranded.

2. Choose Fast Charging Stations

When mapping out your trip, make sure to select stations that offer fast charging. This can help reduce your charging time and get you back on the road quicker. Level 3 charging stations can charge up to 80% in as little as 20 minutes, while Level 2 charging stations can take several hours. Therefore, it’s important to choose stations that offer Level 3 charging whenever possible.

3. Time Your Charging Stops Wisely

Another way to avoid long charging times is to time your charging stops strategically. Instead of simply stopping at a charging station whenever you’re low on charge, plan to charge your vehicle during meal times or bathroom breaks. This way, you can make the most of your time and avoid sitting around waiting for your car to charge.

4. Track Your Battery Range

As you drive, make sure to keep an eye on your battery range to avoid running out of power. Most EVs come equipped with a range estimator that tells you how many miles you can drive on your current charge. It’s important to use this tool to gauge when you need to recharge your car.

5. Take Advantage of Hotel Charging Stations

If you’re planning a long road trip, consider staying at hotels that offer EV charging stations. This can help you avoid long charging times and make sure that your car is fully charged when you hit the road the next day. Many hotels now offer EV charging as a complimentary service for guests.

Key Takeaways

• Plan your electric car route ahead of time to avoid range anxiety
• Choose fast charging stations for shorter charging times
• Time your charging stops during meal or bathroom breaks
• Track your battery range to avoid running out of power
• Take advantage of hotel charging stations to ensure a fully charged car on the road

Conclusion

Planning your electric car route ahead of time is critical for avoiding long charging times and maintaining peace of mind on the road. By using apps to find charging stations, timing your stops strategically, and tracking your battery range, you can travel longer distances with ease. As more charging stations become available, electric car owners can feel confident hitting the road and exploring new territories in their sustainable vehicles.