How to Make the Best Use of an E-Vehicle
One day soon, we’ll just be calling them “cars” and “trucks,” but today, electric vehicles are new and different. Are you interested in buying an electric vehicle but unsure about the advantages? Already own one but want to learn more about long-distance travel? Read on.
If you’re concerned about a rapidly warming planet or outrageous fossil fuel prices, it’s time to consider purchasing an electric vehicle. If you have solar at your home or business, you can power your transportation with solar power. Pretty cool, right? And with new incentives offered through the 2022 Federal Inflation Reduction Act, your investment in an electric vehicle can pay off even sooner. For in-town transportation, there is simply no better solution than an e-vehicle. And even if fuel prices go down, why should we continue to rely on evil dictators and oligarchs for our transportation? No, thank you!
It’s all fine and good to use an electric vehicle to get to and from work or the grocery store, but what about that trip you’re planning to Aunt Maggie’s place that’s a few hours away? Where are the “filling stations?” How to get there without adding hours of time waiting for your vehicle’s battery to recharge? Is there an app for that? Well yes, there is, but it’s a little more complicated than that.
Time for a Road Trip!
So you’ve purchased an incredible electric car. It’s great for getting around town, but you’re ready to take your commitment to this lifestyle to the next level. Awesome! Pat yourself on the back for your courage and passion for doing the right thing, because you are. Just make a solid plan and you’ll do great!
Yes, there is an App for That
Your smartphone will be your best companion as you navigate our highway system in your electric vehicle. If you own a Tesla, you won’t need it as much because the company has invested so much into a network of fast chargers that’s well integrated into each of their vehicle’s infotainment system. However, for the majority of e-vehicle owners who are not in a Tesla, the smartphone will play a very important role on your trip.
Apps like Plug Share are great (they also have a great website) because they show all public charging spots for your selected area. The network of users is pretty good at rating each location and letting you know if it might be busy or if one or more charging plugs are not working. This is valuable information as you want to be efficient with your time when you stop to refuel.
Level 2 Chargers Are Your Friends
MAKE NOTE: you need to filter your results in your app to only show Level 2 charging spots. This includes types like CCS, SAE, and in some cases, CHAdeMO types. If the charging station only has J-1772 or NEMA charge plugs, these will take way too long for your needs. Level 1 chargers work only if you’ll be at work for 8 hours or plugging in at home and the vehicle will be plugged in overnight. It’s nice that they are out there, but completely useless for your road trip.
The companies that make vehicle chargers also have websites and apps for helping you navigate your way. This includes ChargePoint, Blink, SemaConnect, and Electrify America. As of this writing and based on our location near I-5 in Southern Oregon, we’ve found that the last one, Electrify America (EA), is the best option for this area. That said, it’s best to download all of the apps for your trip so you have a wide range of options as you hunt down a good electric charger. EA charging stations are located in convenient locations near major roads, while also near decent shopping and dining options.
Range Anxiety? Don’t Worry, Just Plan Ahead!
Your vehicle will make a good guess on your expected range in miles, but if you have hilly terrain ahead, plan for 20% or more of a drop in the actual range. E-vehicle charging is quickest up to 80%, so it makes the most sense to draw down your battery as much as you can before stopping and only plan to recharge to 80% and keep moving.
Once you get to your destination, you can plan to look for a Level 2, or even a Level 1 charger while you are enjoying your weekend visit with Aunt Maggie. You might even consider bringing any extra cords or adapters that came with your vehicle in case you want to use a standard plug at your host’s house. Your aunt will be so proud of your achievement and will help you do your part.
And if Aunt Maggie has a bunch of cats and you opt for a hotel nearby instead, you can filter results on apps like Plug Share to only show chargers at hotels so you can be sure you have a charging option there.
It’s a really good idea to start that journey back home with a “full tank,” so make plans to do so and you’ll be smiling the whole way, even if your fill-up takes a few minutes longer. Bon Voyage!