While electric vehicle adoption is accelerating across the U.S., EVs are still a novelty for most Americans. And for many new electric vehicle owners, this might be your first road trip in an EV. When it comes to road trips, a little extra planning can go a long way. Here is our EV Road Trip Planner, a comprehensive guide to ensure your EV road trip is enjoyable and goes as planned.

EV Road Trip Planner Tip #1: Know Your EV's Range

Before setting out, it is crucial to understand your car's range. For instance, if you drive a Hyundai Ioniq 5 RWD SEL with a 300-mile range, consider factors like speed, load, and passengers. Typically, driving at 65 mph or more with additional weight might reduce your range (it depends, but it could be around 10%). Always aim to retain a buffer, ensuring you don't reach a charger with less than 60 miles of charge left.

EV Road Trip Planner Tip #2: Plan Your Stops Strategically

For a trip from Baltimore to Miami, which spans approximately 1,100 miles:

• Start your journey by 9 am.
• After roughly 4 hours (or 180-200 miles), plan a lunch break. Use apps like PlugShare to locate fast-charging stations near restaurants along your route.
• Aim to arrive at the charging station with 10-25% battery left. Charging up to 80% should coincide with your mealtime.
• You can repeat another 4-hour drive until the next fast-charging location to have dinner.
• Locate a hotel another 4-5 hours away and ensure they have a working Level 2 charger. This will allow your car to charge overnight.

EV Road Trip Planner Tip #3: Be Mindful of Charging Habits

• Avoid charging immediately upon arrival at the charging location, especially if your car lacks battery cooling/heating and preconditioning. Let the battery cool off first.
• It's not necessary to charge up to 100% every time, especially if you are making frequent stops.
• Refrain from charging at every pit stop, especially if your battery is still between 40-80%.
• Utilize apps like PlugShare to verify the working condition of chargers. Mark any broken chargers you encounter to help fellow travelers.
• Bring your standard Level 1 car charger along on the road trip with you. While a slower charger, it could come in handy during unexpected stops and emergencies.

EV Road Trip Planner Additional Tips

• Stay Informed: Use apps like PlugShare to ensure the charger you're heading to is functional. Fellow travelers often mark broken chargers helping you stay updated.
• Safety First: While it might be tempting to cover more ground, avoid driving for more than 8 hours a day. Fatigue can be a safety hazard. The same applies to gas car drivers too.
• Stay Flexible: While planning is essential, remain adaptable. Sometimes, you might find scenic spots worth exploring or need unexpected breaks.
• Weather Watch: Check the weather forecast before embarking on your trip. Extreme temperatures can affect your EV's range. Learn more about driving an EV during extreme weather conditions.
• Pack an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, and basic tools. It's always better to be prepared.
• Stay Connected: Ensure your phone is charged and you have a car charger. In remote areas, consider carrying a physical map as a backup.

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