It takes some planning, using apps like A Better Route Planner to select charging stops, but some of the more out-of-the-way places in the US, like Monument Valley, AZ, are now accessible by EV. EVs are now available in all types, from efficient commuter sedans to the very capable high-clearance 4WD Rivian R1S, which enables us to get up our steep, rough driveway safely in a snowstorm, and access the wild spots where we like to vacation.
We've taken so many road trips in the first year and a half of owning our EV that we've lost count: from our home in Colorado to NM, TX, northern CA, southern CA, UT, and AZ. Here are some charging tips from our experience so far:
Don't just sit in the car. The 30-45 minutes it takes to charge is an excellent chance to stretch your legs, have a snack, and get back on the road refreshed and alert.
Planning charging stops in advance allows you to select fast charging stations with nearby attractions. We've had many a delicious meal at a restaurant walking distance from a charger. We've also enjoyed bird walks and local museums.
Fast charging on the road costs about the same as gas for a similar-sized vehicle.
Sometimes there are opportunities to charge overnight, like at an RV spot in a state park campground. It's worth it to research these and bring along an adapter for the RV outlets.
Most charging networks are extremely reliable. We have never been disappointed by Rivian, Tesla, or ChargePoint. The exception is Electrify America -- don't rely on them, unless you have no other options.
Most stations are open to all EVs at this point, but check in advance, and make sure you have adapters if you need them.
If you're sightseeing in an area with few charging stations, a good strategy is to use a campground or hotel near a charging station as a home base for exploration. We camped at the delightful Navajo National Monument near the new Tesla charging station at Kayenta, AZ on our recent trip to the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and Canyon de Chelly.
Beyond clean charging stops instead of nasty trips to gas stations, EVs offer some other surprising advantages:
Electric motors have more torque on demand than ICE engines. This translates to being able to pass anything on the road, quickly and safely. Two lane highways become much less stressful.
When sleeping in an EV, you can run the heat or AC overnight on battery power. This extends the camping season and makes car camping extremely comfortable. Our Rivian R1S even adjusts to level the bed for camping comfort. We've taken to camping on road trips in all seasons instead of staying in hotels. We are saving enough money on hotels to pay our monthly car loan payment!
Coming into a campground late at night, you can slip in quietly and not disturb your neighbors with noise or exhaust.
You can plug in your coffee pot and make breakfast on the tailgate without messing with a butane stove.
