The UK's expanding network of charging stations is making the charging process more efficient during extended trips. With a growing selection of long-range electric vehicles capable of covering 200 to 300 miles on a single charge, planning your journey in advance can ensure your road trip is free from the concern of Range Anxiety.
Our Top Tips for planning your EV road trip
1. Consider your journey distance
When planning an EV road trip, it is important to consider the distance of your journey and the real world range you achieve in your EV. Although a growing range of EVs offer a real-world driving range of 250-300 miles, it's important to plan your trips with a pit stop to recharge your EV and take a break from driving, particularly for longer journeys.
2.Think about your charging time
It is important to know your EVs maximum DC charging rate, as this will impact your charging speed. This insight enables you to select an appropriate charger based on the required charging time, which is an important consideration in your travel plans.
Although considering charging time is essential during travel, an increasing array of rapid charging options is emerging. Experts in the field recommend charging only up to 80%.
Certain EV models offer the ability to adjust the power input and charging rate. This adjustment can be made via the vehicle's internal screen or a mobile application, a feature worth utilizing for extended trips.
Remember, the chargepoint operator and the charger's speed influence the charging cost. Higher speeds often come with increased rates, making it essential to choose a network that aligns with your financial plan.
3. Consider the other facilities you need while charging
When planning a charging stop, think about what else you might need. Perhaps a place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or have a bite to eat?
Many charging stations are found at motorway service areas, which provide a food options, shops and other facilities. Others might be located close to shopping centres or along main streets.
Top Tip: Check whether your accommodation provides charging facilities for guests, utilising this chargers is likely to be more cost effective , and will allow you to depart the next day with a fully charged vehicle.
Using motorways for your journey
Just as driving a petrol or diesel car on the motorway consumes more fuel at higher speeds, an EV0 will use more battery energy. Some drivers choose to avoid motorways, using the journey as a chance to explore different places along the way. However, if you decide to travel via motorway, be mindful that you will likely consume more of your EV's range.
Charging your EV in Europe
When you're consdering driving your EV to Europe, there are a few things you need to do to ensure you meet the regulations of the countries you are driving through and visiting. When taking your EV abroad, its important to research the charging network, plan your journey and become familiar with new apps before you go. Similar to the UK, various companies provide chargers, but the market is more diverse. Find out more:
Long-range EVs
Many drivers considering an electric vehicle (EV) worry that it won't offer enough range, leading to frequent recharging and disruption of their daily or weekly routines.
Considering that 99% of car journeys in England are under 100 miles, the majority can be completed with an EV without needing to recharge. Nevertheless, many prospective EV drivers are still in search of the model with the longest range. To address this, we have put together a list of the Top 10 long-range EVs available from Lease Electric in 2024.
Pre travel checks
Before setting off, performing a few basic maintenance checks on your electric vehicle (EV) can be the deciding factor in reaching your holiday spot without any hitches or being stranded on the roadside
- Ensure you have Roadside Assistance / Recovery: make a note of contact details, policy numbers etc.
- Inspect tyres: ensure all four tyres are in good condition, have adequate tread depth and are inflated to the correct pressure (it is also important to check your spare, the reinflation kit and that you have your car jack and locking wheel nut key).
- Check water: keep your water / screen wash topped up so you can clear debris and dirt from your windscreen.
- Examine wipers: replace your windscreen wipers if they are no longer clearing your windscreen effectively.
- Check lights: replace any bulbs in your indicators, hazards lights, headlights, fog lights, reverse lights or brake lights if necessary.
- Check charge: ensure you have sufficient charge to reach your destination or the planned charging point along the way.