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6 points to keep in mind before planning a long road trip in an Electric vehicle

by TurboCrush Desk

The sheer pleasure of a road journey is unmatched by many other things in the world, especially unplanned ones. However, when you own an EV, it might be helpful to plan and plot out excursions a little ahead of time. And more so in India, where there is still much work to be done in terms of EV charging infrastructure. So, here are a few pointers and tricks to help you and your electric car that will help you in having a great road trip.

Know the actual range of your batteries:

It’s crucial to first understand the range of your car in order to guarantee a stress-free road journey. On the manufacturer’s website or in the owner’s handbook, you may find the precise battery range. This will help you schedule charging stops so that your electric vehicle doesn’t die in the middle of nowhere.

Schedule your pit stops:

It is advised that you schedule your pauses to make the drive more pleasant depending on how far you are travelling and the range of your vehicle. The main planning step should involve plotting out the locations of charging stations along your journey in accordance with the battery’s range. To cut down on breaks and make the most of the charging period, bonus points if you can locate food stations close to the charging point.

Ask the hotel for charging facility in advance:

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It is recommended that you call layover hotels in advance if your trip will take more than one day to confirm that they have electricity and the right voltage outlets for charging your electric vehicle. By allowing the batteries to charge as you sleep, you will be able to save a lot of time. It’s best to call restaurants ahead of time, even on a day trip, to be sure you can charge your car’s batteries there.

Carrry a portable earthing kit

EV drivers must ensure they can charge their vehicles at any time. Due to improper earthing in the majority of restaurants and hotels, an earthing kit is advised for this. As earthing protects appliances, including in this case, your EV, against unwarranted power spikes, charging at a location without earthing can harm your car. An iron rod that can be buried in the ground and a cable attached to it that can be put into your power cord make up an earthing kit. Making your own earthing kit is another option.

With right driving style go for extra mile:

Almost all electric cars have a kilometre counter that shows how many more miles the battery can last. You can alter your driving style to extend the range if the number of kilometres you need to travel exceeds the car’s range. More battery is used when acceleration is harder. You’ll have a greater range if you keep your speed constant at, say, 40 kmph as opposed to when you’re travelling at 80 kmph. Additionally, abrupt braking uses up a lot of battery. It’s best to release the accelerator pedal a few metres before the desired stopping position rather than slamming on the brakes abruptly. At this point, the vehicle will start the regenerative braking process and charge the battery as you stop.

Make a list of workshops along the way:

A list of nearby mechanics will come in handy if, worst-case scenario, all your calculations are incorrect and you find yourself stranded on the highway with a dead battery. Making a list of mechanics and service stations that accept EVs every 20–50 km along your trip is advised as you plan your charging and rest stops.

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