The EV Road Trip Survival Guide: 7 Must-Have Gadgets and Apps
Imagine going on a road trip in your EV without the Stress? DON’T PANIC , EV LOVERS !
I’ve conquered every EV obstacle so you don’t have to.
My ultimate EV road trip survival guide loaded with gadgets and apps to own the road.
Ready to Conquer? Let’s roll !!!!
1. A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) – App
This app is the pinnacle of EV road trip planning and it feels like having a genius co-pilot riding with you.
ABRP can calculate the most efficient route based on your car’s make, model, and current battery level. It accounts for weather conditions, elevation variations, and even charging stops.
I’ve used it on several trips, and it’s a huge help in preventing range anxiety.
I will never forget that moment when my battery was about to dip into the red zone and ABRP saved me from a terrifying detour during a cross-country trek by redirecting me to a fast charger.
However, Japan’s new revolution of solid-state charging batteries may help in reducing the range anxity in future.
2. PlugShare – App
Think of PlugShare as the hidden gem of EV charging stations. This is a community-driven app that provides real-time charging point availability, photos, and user reviews.
Considering all the mentioned factors, this also maps out the broken and sketchy EV charging stations.
Thanks to the PlugShare app, I recently discovered a charging station at a nearby coffee shop.
It’s perfect for finding reliable charging stations off the usual route.
United States’s charging station infrastructure has been extensively upgraded and reaching the target of 32% increase of charging stations throughout the country. No other country has done at such pace.
3. Portable Level 2 Charger – Gadget
Have you ever experienced the fear of being stranded in the middle of nowhere without a charger nearby?
A Portable Level 2 charger in your trunk is like having a superhero on your road trip. It plugs into 240V outlet and provides a backup option for remote locations or overnight stays.
I once used mine at a cousin’s cabin without any charging infrastructure nearby. Although it was slow but effective and assured me that I would return home!
4. Tesla Adapter (for Non-Tesla EVs) – Gadget
Driving a non-Tesla EV and passing Tesla charges can feel like a cruel tease.
Here, a Tesla adaptor can make all the difference and can be a game-changer.
With a TeslaTap adaptor, you can increase your options by connecting to Tesla’s Destination Charger network (not Superchargers), which is typically located in hotels, restaurants and sometimes in the parking areas.
One of my friends introduced it to me when we went for a long-distance trip. It is like unlocking a hidden level in the EV road trip game.
5. Tire Repair Kit – Gadget
Road trips are particularly stressful when you have flat tires, which can happen to anyone.
Having a compact tire repair kit along with a portable air compressor can get you back on the road and you don’t have to think about towing your car to nearest mechanic to fix the puncture.
Luckily, I never get a chance to use mine but I am well prepared for this in advance.
6. Dash Cam – Gadget
A dash cam is a must for recording your road trip experience and staying safe on the road.
It can capture scenic drives, unexpected wildlife encounters, or even accidents.
I have been using the 3 Channel dashcam to record stunning mountain passes, capturing friends and family reactions sitting inside the car and share them with friends.
7. Insulated Cooler – Gadget
If you don’t make charging stops into a mini adventure, they can feel like an eternity.
An insulated cooler helps in keeping the snacks and drinks fresh and turns downtime into a picnic.
I have enjoyed many sandwiches and fresh juices while my car charges.
Small pleasure moments like this make EV road trip unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Driving an EV doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right apps and gadgets, you can stay connected, maximize your range, and enjoy the road trip. These have helped me (and many others) in hassle-free traveling, from using ABRP to plan the route to staying occupied during charging stops.
Your next EV journey is waiting – so pack your stuff, charge up, and hit the road!