Taking a road trip with an electric vehicle can be extremely difficult without the right charging plan and information.
Unlike internal combustion engine, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid vehicles, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) rely solely on electrical energy to move power to wheels. While EVs have grown in popularity in the United States in recent years, charging infrastructure still needs significant expansion before it becomes convenient for most drivers.
Taking a Memorial Day road trip is possible, and can be fairly simplistic if drivers keep a few things in mind regarding driving range, optimal charging sessions, and routes.
How to Plan a Memorial Day Road Trip With an Electric Vehicle
Embarking on a long road trip with an EV will eventually deplete the vehicle’s battery range. Charging stations may be easier to find today thanks to modern technology, but there are still ways to prep for your trip and reduce range anxiety.
NPR recommends charging your battery to 100% in preparation for an EV road trip. Planning charging stops before hitting the road, packing intentionally, and watching your speed while driving are also recommended.
When it comes to planning a road trip with an EV, every mile you gain from charging prior to hitting the road can make a difference. Planning charging stops along your route using apps like Google Maps or A Better Route Planner (via desktop or mobile) is a great way to prevent range anxiety.
Finally, charging adapters can grant users access to some of the most powerful charging stations on the route. Leaving home without your charging adapter could limit your charging options, causing longer sessions.
Does Warm Weather Affect EVs on Road Trips?
Electric vehicles can lose driving range more quickly in extreme temperatures, and charging can be less efficient.
If you plan on charging your EV in extreme heat this Memorial Day weekend, experts recommend completely turning the vehicle off and stepping out. This generates less heat and reduces strain on the charging system than staying inside with the air conditioning running.
Charging an EV in extreme heat or cold isn’t ideal, but drivers can ensure the best charging session possible by planning.
The more range depleted while driving, the longer it takes to replenish a battery. Furthermore, heat increases electrical resistance for EV batteries and chargers, resulting in longer, more taxing charging sessions.
Shorter, more frequent sessions can make for a better trip depending on your route and driving style.
Can You Take an EV Road Trip in 2026?
Charging networks like the Tesla Supercharger network make it feasible for drivers to travel long distances in an EV and recharge to a reasonable battery percentage in around 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the vehicle, battery type, and charger.
Taking an EV road trip may not always feel easy due to a lack of charging infrastructure in the United States. But modern tech like route planning, combined with battery life and charging tips and tricks, can help you go the distance.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network.
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