How to plan a long trip with an EV

So, fancy a long drive, do you? And you’re thinking of doing it in an EV? Brave! It’s not quite the same as piling into your trusty diesel and just winging it, is it? But don’t let that put you off. It is very much possible to drive across our incredible country in an electric car. The key is to remember one thing: planning. It’s important to think about the small details before you take your EV for a road trip that’s over a day long. So, to make sure you have a perfect road trip in an EV, read along!

Choose the Right EV for the Trip

First up, look at the range. Look for an EV that can cover at least 300-400 km on a single charge. The Tata Nexon EV Max, for eg, has a claimed range of 453 km. But do remember that in real life driving, a more reasonable estimate would be 30% off – so about 300- real-world range often falls short of those lofty ARAI figures. A good rule of thumb? Knock off about 20-30% for a more realistic estimate. Battery capacity matters too. Bigger isn’t always better, but it sure helps on those long stretches between charging stations. The Hyundai Ioniq 5, with its 72.6 kWh battery, offers a whopping 631 km range. That’s the kind of juice you want for a proper road trip. 

Don’t forget comfort too. You’ll be spending hours in this car, so make sure it’s not a torture chamber on wheels. Look for supportive seats, good suspension (Indian roads, need we say more?), and comfort features  like a decent infotainment system and climate control. Lastly, consider charging speed. Fast-charging capability can be a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry. The Kia EV6, for example, can add up to 350 km of range in just 18 minutes of charging!

Plan Your Route with Charging Stops

Planning your route with an EV is super important too and it’s not as tricky as you might think!

First up, map out your route on Google Maps. It’s loaded with info on charging stations across India. Just punch in your start point and destination. Click the button below the search bar (for the preset search options) and then tap on more options and select charing stations. PlugShare is also an app you can use for this same purpose – and it’s much more streamlined (pro tip: don’t just rely on one app) 

Also remember, not all charging stations are created equal. Some are fast chargers that’ll juice up your car in no time (like the ones that can add 200km range in just 30 minutes), while others might take a bit longer. Plan your stops accordingly. Maybe grab a chai and some snacks while you wait? And hey, while you’re at it, why not make those charging stops part of your journey? Many charging stations are conveniently located near tourist spots or good restaurants. Plan accordingly!

Optimize Charging Strategy

Optimizing your charging strategy is key to making your EV road trip smooth and stress-free. Let’s break it down.

First, understand the difference between fast-charging and slow-charging. Fast chargers (like DC fast chargers) are the heroes of long trips. They can juice up your car in a fraction of the time—some can add up to 200-300 km of range in just 30 minutes. For example, Tata Power’s EZ Charge network and Zeon Charging stations in India have plenty of DC fast chargers popping up along highways. These are perfect for quick pit stops when you’re on the move. On the other hand, slow chargers (like AC chargers or home wall boxes) are better suited for overnight stops or when you’ve got time to spare. They take longer—think 6-8 hours for a full charge—but they’re gentler on your battery.

Now, here’s the trick: plan your charging breaks efficiently. If you’re using a fast charger, aim to charge up to 80% instead of 100%. Why? Because charging speeds tend to slow down after 80%, so you’ll save time by topping up just enough to reach the next stop comfortably. For example, if you’re driving a Hyundai Kona Electric with a real-world range of around 300 km, plan your stops every 200-250 km and charge only as much as needed.

Another pro tip: time your charging stops with meals or breaks. Many fast chargers are located at restaurants, malls, or petrol pumps (like Indian Oil’s EV charging hubs). So while your car charges, you can grab a bite or stretch your legs. It’s all about multitasking!

Lastly, keep an eye on charging station availability using apps like PlugShare or Tata Power EZ Charge. Some apps even show real-time updates on whether a charger is free or occupied—super useful if you’re travelling on busy routes.

So, plan smart, charge efficiently, and make those breaks count!

Pack smart for efficiency

Packing smart is crucial when it comes to maximizing your EV’s range. Here’s how to do it right.

First off, pack light. The less weight your car is carrying, the better its range will be. Think of it like this: every extra kilogram is like having an invisible passenger along for the ride. So, only bring what you need. If you’re planning a road trip across India, consider packing clothes that can be easily mixed and matched, and skip the heavy luggage.

Next up, manage cabin temperature wisely. Air conditioning and heating can really drain your battery, so use them sparingly. Try to keep your cabin temperature comfortable without going overboard. For instance, if it’s a hot day, roll down your windows for a bit before turning on the AC. And if it’s chilly, use the heated seats instead of cranking up the heater.

Now, let’s talk about driving efficiently. Keep your speed consistent: driving at around 80-100 km/h is usually the sweet spot for most EVs. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, as they can reduce your range. Also, use regenerative braking to your advantage. This feature helps recharge your battery when you slow down, so it’s like getting free energy!

Lastly, keep an eye on your tires pressure. Properly inflated tiress can improve your car’s efficiency and range. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference. Plus, it’s safer and better for your tires in the long run.

Pack smart for efficiency

Being prepared for emergencies is a must when driving an EV. Here’s what you should always have in your car.

First, charging cables are a no-brainer. Make sure you have the right cables for your car, including a portable charger if possible. This way, you can charge up at any compatible station. Don’t forget to check the condition of your cables regularly to avoid any issues.

Next, carry a power bank. It might seem old-school, but trust us, it’s a lifesaver if your phone dies and you need to find a charging station or call for help. Look for one with enough capacity to charge your phone a few times.

Now, roadside assistance is crucial. Keep the contact info for your car’s manufacturer and any roadside services you subscribe to handy. Many EV manufacturers offer dedicated roadside assistance programs, so make sure you know who to call if you need a tow or a jump-start.

Other essentials include a first aid kit, a spare tyre (if your car doesn’t have run-flat tyres), and a reflective warning triangle or LED road flares. These might not be EV-specific, but they’re must-haves for any road trip.

Lastly, keep a physical map or a downloaded map on your phone. GPS can fail, and knowing your route can save you from getting lost. Plus, it’s always good to have a backup plan.

Summary

Planning a long trip in an EV is all about the details. From choosing the right car with a good range and comfort, to mapping out your route with charging stops, every step counts. Optimize your charging strategy by using fast chargers for quick top-ups and slow chargers for longer breaks. By following these tips, you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free EV road trip across India. Whether you’re cruising down the highways or exploring scenic routes, your electric car can be a reliable companion. So, plan ahead, drive smart, and enjoy the journey!

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