Hitting the road in an electric car opens a new dimension of exploring the winding roads, historic towns and dramatic landscapes of the UK. For first-timers, planning the trip involves more than just setting the satnav settings. Whether it’s planning charging stops or selecting hotels with electric car charging points, a little planning can turn an ordinary vacation into a stress-free, energy-saving experience.
How to Plan an EV Road Trip in the UK
Mapping Out a Practical Route
Structure is the beginning of success. First, map out your main destinations, and then overlay charging stations on your route using apps like Zap-Map or A Better Route Planner. You can filter using these tools by connector type, charging speed, and network provider. Planning your route ensures you won’t have to rely on luck and hope to find a suitable place to recharge along the way.
Charging Stations and What to Expect
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When you are aware of the charging capacity of your vehicle, you will save time and energy. Fast chargers (typically 7-22kW) can be used for overnight parking, but rapid chargers (43-150kW) can greatly shorten the time spent waiting on long journeys. Gridserve, InstaVolt and Pod Point are publicly available charging networks in the UK, which can be used through a mobile app or contactless payment. Make sure that it is compatible in advance and have a backup location nearby in case the charger is offline or in use.
Smart Timing Means Less Waiting
Charging does not need to be a lag. Organise meal breaks, walks, and sightseeing stops to top up the plans during every break. Chargers are now available in the car parks of supermarkets, motorway services, and even some attractions, so it is not difficult to recharge as you fill up yourself or visit a castle garden. Midweek and early mornings are less likely to be in demand, thus the chances of queuing at a port are minimal.
Where to Stay and Plug In
A significant benefit comes with choosing a place to stay that has EV facilities. Electric car charging points are a feature often listed in hotel bookings, and you can use filters or confirm availability by asking in advance.
Electric travellers have more places to stay in, whether in coastal inns in Cornwall or luxury stays in the Lake District. Being in a place with a charger enables one to wake up with a full battery without having to queue at public stations in the morning.
Budgeting for Electricity Use
The cost of charging varies among providers and their charging rates. Some hotels offer complimentary top-ups to their guests, while others charge a fee per kilowatt-hour. The cost of rapid charging stations to the public is typically between 40p and 80p per kWh.
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To ensure that you spend less, do slow charging overnight at hotels and fast top-ups every now and then on the road. There are application programs, such as Bonnet or Octopus Electroverse, that can be used to manage expenses across various networks using a single account.
Pack for Flexibility and Comfort
Bring your Type 2 cable, RFID cards to your favourite charging networks, and take a three-pin adapter with you when you travel to more remote regions. To make charging stops longer, bring a blanket or travel pillow, and a cooler bag with beverages and snacks might be a good idea. Even a small folding chair can transform an empty car park into a relaxing rest area while your EV charges.
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Avoid Common Pitfalls
The problem with overdependence on one app or a charging service provider is that it can be counterproductive. It is always better to have a backup map tool and consult user reviews to determine the current status of the charger.
It is advisable not to wait until the battery is less than 20%, particularly in rural areas where alternatives can be scarce. If you are in a hotel and the charger provided is not available, knowing the location of the nearest rapid charging unit keeps the trip on track.
Driving Forward Without Delay
The first EV road trip across the UK is not only about getting from A to B, but also about having fun along the way, without taking any unnecessary detours. As the number of hotels with electric car charging points increases, intelligent route planning and intelligent charging behaviour will enable drivers to enjoy both freedom and efficiency. Be confident enough to allow the road to open up and be assured that your journey is electrified in all aspects.
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