For electric vehicle owners, long journeys can bring a stress known as "range anxiety" if not planned correctly. While gas stations are available almost every kilometer for gasoline vehicles, route planning is critical as the charging infrastructure is still developing. Fortunately, ChargeIQ allows drivers to instantly view the locations, availability, and cost information of charging stations. Below, you can find the steps you need to consider when traveling long distances with an electric vehicle.

The Importance of Route Planning for Electric Vehicles

The battery capacity in electric vehicles is more limited compared to gasoline or diesel fuel; therefore, it is important to plan your range for a journey that will last for many kilometers. With good route planning, you can:

  • Minimize range anxiety.
  • Create alternative plans in case you have to wait in line at charging stations.
  • Optimize the total duration and cost of your journey.

Basic Steps for Electric Vehicle Route Planning

Clarify Your Start and End Points

Before you start your journey, enter both your departure and arrival points. One of the most important steps before embarking on a long journey with an electric vehicle is to clearly define the start and end points. Planning every stage of the trip not only ensures a safe drive but also helps in managing the battery correctly.

Calculate Your Range

Remember that the maximum range value stated by the manufacturer is achieved under ideal conditions. When traveling with electric vehicles, it is very important to understand if the battery capacity is sufficient and to estimate how long the battery will last during the trip. The range of electric vehicles can vary depending on many factors; therefore, making an accurate calculation allows you to plan a safe route for long journeys.

Prepare a Charging Station Map

Identifying charging stations on your route in advance provides convenience during the journey. You can use the ChargeIQ app to find out which charging types (AC, DC) are supported, the operating hours of the stations, and their availability. With ChargeIQ routing, you can view all DC and AC stations on your route.

Don't Forget Spare Equipment and Supplies

Although electric vehicles are technologically advanced, minor glitches or unexpected situations can sometimes occur. To avoid such problems, it will be very beneficial to take spare equipment and necessary supplies with you before the journey. Portable charging cables, different adapter types (Type 2, CCS, CHAdeMO), a mini air compressor, and a basic first-aid kit will make your life easier on the road.

Spare equipment and supplies secure not only the vehicle but also the driver and the overall travel experience. Reviewing what you might need when embarking on long journeys with electric vehicles minimizes potential problems you might encounter.

 

The Subtleties of Range Calculation

When traveling with electric vehicles (EVs), how long the battery will last and how far you can go are often among the most worrying factors. Therefore, making an accurate range calculation is crucial for a smooth journey. However, range is not a factor that depends solely on your vehicle's battery and capacity. Many factors, such as your driving style, weather conditions, road type, and vehicle weight, affect the range of your electric vehicle.

  • Speed and road gradient: Highway speeds and heavy traffic increase consumption; mountainous areas require extra energy.
  • Outside temperature: Temperatures outside the 15–35 °C (59–95 °F) range reduce battery performance. In cold weather, the range can decrease by up to 20%.
  • Load and A/C use: The load inside the vehicle, the number of passengers, and the frequency of using the air conditioning or heating system directly affect the range.
  • Leave a safety margin: Plan with a value 10–15% lower than the theoretical range; this will protect you against unexpected deviations.

Charging Station Map and Price Comparison

Fast DC charging stations typically complete a 20% to 80% charge in 20–40 minutes, whereas AC chargers, in the 7–22 kW range, may require 6–8 hours for a full charge. When planning:

  • Examine the operator network: You can check the locations of all stations with the ChargeIQ app.
  • Get availability information: Thanks to ChargeIQ, check the occupancy rate of contracted operators to calculate your waiting time.
  • Compare unit tariffs: With ChargeIQ's tariffs and charge meter, per-kWh fees and fixed connection fees can vary between operators; choose the most economical option.

 


Dynamic Updates with Real-Time Information

During your journey, live traffic alerts, weather reports, and charging station availability rates help you keep your route plan updated. With widgets that you can integrate into your phone or your vehicle's screen, you can create alternative exit routes to bypass traffic jams on the highway and revise your range forecast based on instant storm or heavy rain information. Additionally, you can rearrange your break schedule by choosing less busy times for charging stations. This way, you can make your journey more efficient, safe, and flexible.

 

Alternative Routes and Emergency Scenarios

Always have a "Plan B" and "Plan C." In the event of a breakdown or unexpected congestion on the main route, switching to a backup plan saves time and energy. If you own a plug-in hybrid vehicle, you can also consider refueling options and combine both charging and gas stations.

Technical Service and Support Points

In case of a vehicle breakdown during a long journey, add authorized service points of the manufacturer to your route plan. Remember that you can benefit from mobile service for a flat tire or minor electrical faults; adding emergency contact numbers to your phone's contact list will make things easier.

A comfortable and safe long journey with electric vehicles is possible with detailed route planning. If you meticulously follow every step, from carefully determining the start and end points to realistic range calculation and charging station selection, and from live data monitoring to preparing alternative plans, you will not encounter any surprises. With the right tools and conscious planning, you can cover any distance with your electric vehicle uninterrupted and peacefully. Happy travels! 🚗🔌