Going on vacation with an electric car without sacrificing anything compared to an internal combustion engine – is that possible?? Depending on the destination, such a trip will quickly add up to 1.000 kilometers and more combined. With most electric cars capable of a maximum of 200 to 300 kilometers on one charge, such a trip quickly becomes a challenge.
Electromobility is a big topic- not only in germany, but worldwide. Vehicles that run on electricity are now part of everyday life. But are electric cars also suitable for the next family vacation?? It is well known that traveling involves more luggage, which in turn puts more strain on the battery pack. R+V24 has done some research for you and explains what you need to look out for if you want to take your electric car on vacation.
Charging infrastructure varies from country to country
As a driver of an electric car, you are inevitably dependent on a well-developed public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. During a trip, however, this point is even more important than in normal everyday life. With a diesel, the reserve lamp lights up after a remaining range of 90 kilometers. Within a radius of this size, you will find a charging station anywhere in europe. In contrast, the battery of an electric car is usually still 35 or 40 percent full at 90 kilometers. A warning therefore usually only appears when the remaining range is less than 15 kilometers. This becomes a problem for you at the latest when there is not one charging station on a 100-kilometer route. e-cars and vacations therefore mean a much greater planning effort for you. In countries with poor infrastructure, it is not enough to rely on the charging stations listed in the navigation system. You should plan your route in such a way that, in the event of an emergency (traffic jams, road closures, defective charging station, etc.), you can avoid the worst.) always have enough range to drive to an alternative charging point.
According to a study by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA)*, Europe’s charging infrastructure has room for improvement. In some countries, the expansion of charging stations is inadequate. Before you take your e-car on vacation, find out whether there are sufficient charging stations along the route. According to according to the study, the following destinations are particularly suitable:
- Netherlands: 66,700 charging points
- France: 45.800 charging points
- Germany: 44.500 charging points
- Italy: 13.000 charging points
Romania, for example, is less suitable. There you will find only about 500 charging stations to charge your electric car on vacation.
Electromobility: Not all charging stations are the same
Especially on long-distance journeys, the mere presence of a charging station is not the only decisive factor. It is at least as important that it is a fast charging station. You can use one of these to charge your electric car almost completely within 30 to 40 minutes while on vacation. That’s perfect for a short break. In many places, however, drivers only have access to a charging station with 22 kw or even 11 kw. In this case, the charging pause of your e-car lasts several hours, which you certainly do not want to spend at a rest stop during your vacation.
There are now a large number of providers of charging stations. But not every provider supports all charging stations. So before you start your journey, it is essential to check which requirements you have to fulfill. In some cases, online registration is necessary beforehand. Often, charging is only possible with an appropriate charging card, which is sent by mail (!) is sent. In the case of charging stations operated by local energy suppliers, the conditions are sometimes quite different. Charging stations for electric cars at hotels and restaurants can be used free of charge during your vacation- but only as a guest.
Is an e-car suitable for a vacation??
Despite all the apparent obstacles, there is hardly anything standing in the way of a vacation with an e-car. There are many fast-charging stations, especially on the freeway network, so that the forced breaks do not last longer than they really have to. Speaking of forced breaks: these may seem daunting at first, but if you are driving with children, you will have to take regular breaks anyway. Every two to three hours (or. every 300 km) are even offered in this case. Another advantage: you are more rested and less stressed when you reach your vacation destination. Nevertheless, we recommend that you draw up a charging plan in advance so that you are prepared for all eventualities. Because especially in southern regions it can be more difficult to find a charging station for the electric car on vacation.
If you need help planning your trip, we recommend reading up on the internet or using apps like charge&fuel or chargemap. These show you all the charging stations on your way to your destination and enable you to plan better. Another advantage: many apps show you where you need a charging card, how to get it in advance and which plug you need for each charging station. Then it will no longer be a problem to go on vacation with an electric car.