The Best U.S. States for Electric Vehicle Road Trips Unveiled
As the popularity of road trips resurges among Americans, the advent of electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming the way these journeys are planned. With the summer travel season approaching, EV drivers have new data to consider in choosing their road trip destinations. Signal + Power, a company specializing in EV cords and power adapters, has released a comprehensive report ranking U.S. states based on their suitability for EV road trips.
Delaware has claimed the top spot as the most favorable state for EV travelers. This ranking is attributed to its extensive charging infrastructure and cost-effective charging rates. According to Signal + Power’s report, Delaware boasts 12 charging stations per 100 miles, with an average cost of just $0.33 per kilowatt-hour. This makes the state an attractive option for those planning long journeys.
Jae Roe, an expert in power cords at Signal + Power, highlights Delaware’s geographic advantages for EVs. “Delaware is almost tailor-made for electric vehicles. It’s compact, relatively flat, and well-covered by charging infrastructure along the I-95 corridor and coastal routes,” Roe explained in an email to Travel + Leisure. The state’s small size, with a length under 100 miles, allows most modern EVs to traverse it on a single charge, significantly reducing range anxiety.
California, known for its scenic routes such as Highway 1, ranks second on the list. The state offers 28 charging stations per 100 miles, with charging facilities integrated into various locations, including shopping centers and scenic overlooks. Roe describes California’s Highway 1 corridor as “arguably the gold standard for EV infrastructure.”
Following Delaware and California, the top ten states for EV road trips include West Virginia, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Hampshire, and Ohio.
For those planning EV road trips, Jae Roe shares some valuable advice. He suggests shifting from a “drive-until-empty” mindset to a “plan-and-enjoy-the-stops” approach. Charging from 10 percent to 70 or 80 percent is recommended, as it is the fastest part of the charging process. Roe also advises checking charger reliability and having backup locations ready, utilizing apps like PlugShare for route planning.
Moreover, Roe emphasizes the importance of considering weather and speed, as these factors can significantly affect an EV’s range. “Cold temperatures, high highway speeds, and roof cargo can significantly reduce range, so building in a 15 to 20 percent arrival buffer is smart planning,” he advises.
Ultimately, Roe encourages travelers to incorporate charging stops into their travel experience. “Align charging stops with meals, sightseeing, or rest breaks, so the journey feels more relaxed than a traditional gas-powered trip,” he suggests.
Original Story at www.travelandleisure.com