Planning a cross-country road trip in an electric vehicle (EV) can feel daunting. Range anxiety, charging infrastructure concerns, and reliability issues are common worries. I recently embarked on a 6,000-mile journey across 14 US states and two Canadian provinces in my Volkswagen ID.4, relying solely on charging stations. Here’s What I Learned Out On The Road.
Planning the Impossible: Mapping a Route Across Charging Deserts
Initially, popular EV trip planning apps like PlugShare and A Better Routeplanner showed no viable routes across sparsely populated areas like Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota. The perceived “charging deserts” presented a significant challenge. However, by meticulously adjusting routes, incorporating slower Level 2 charging options, and leveraging real-time user reports on PlugShare, I pieced together a feasible itinerary. This underscored the importance of flexibility and utilizing real-time information when planning long-distance EV travel.
Charging on the Go: Strategies for a Seamless Journey
My typical travel day involved covering 400-450 miles, requiring three to four charging stops. Starting each day with at least an 80% charge, I pre-calculated distances to the next charging location using PlugShare. To streamline the payment process, I pre-loaded several charging network apps (Electrify America, ChargePoint, EVconnect, FLO, and Ivy) with my credit card information. Upon connecting, I would repeat the process: charge to 80% or higher and calculate the distance to the next stop. This methodical approach minimized downtime and kept me on schedule.
Real-World Charging Experiences: Reliability and Regional Differences
While charging infrastructure was sparse in the western US and parts of Canada, Electrify America consistently provided reliable and conveniently located stations. As I moved eastward, charging options became more abundant. Unexpectedly, Quebec presented a unique challenge: limited compatibility with US credit cards at charging stations, despite widespread acceptance at other businesses. This highlighted the importance of researching region-specific payment requirements before embarking on an EV road trip.
Adapting to the Unexpected: Efficiency, Weather, and Problem-Solving
Driving an EV requires a heightened awareness of energy consumption. My vehicle’s efficiency averaged over three miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh). However, headwinds and uphill climbs significantly impacted this figure, necessitating adjustments to my charging strategy. Encountering unexpected issues with charging stations was also part of the journey. Three times, I faced connection problems, but prompt and effective customer service from Electrify America and ChargePoint resolved these issues remotely. This reinforced the crucial role of reliable customer support in ensuring a smooth EV travel experience.
Cost Comparison: EV vs. Gas
While occasional free charging opportunities arose, my average charging cost was $15 per session, ranging from $5 to $24. Thanks to a discount for VW owners, my total charging expenses for the 6,000-mile trip amounted to around $300. Compared to an estimated $800 in fuel costs for a comparable gasoline-powered vehicle, my EV journey proved more economical.
Reflections and Recommendations
What I learned out on the road is that meticulous planning, flexibility, and a cautious approach are essential for a successful long-distance EV trip. While charging infrastructure continues to develop, leveraging available resources and anticipating potential challenges can mitigate range anxiety and ensure a positive experience. Based on my journey, I would recommend others to consider a similar adventure, but with careful preparation and a realistic understanding of the current state of EV charging infrastructure.
