On holiday with an electric car: 10 tips
More and more Dutch people are choosing an electric car as their daily means of transport. But what if you want to take your electric car on holiday? Is that feasible? Yes, it is certainly possible, but it requires some preparation. Here are 10 practical tips to make your electric holiday go as smoothly as possible.
1. Check charging options on the go:
Before you leave, it is essential to know where you can charge on the road. Fortunately, charging abroad is becoming increasingly easy, especially in countries like France and Germany. Make sure you have an idea of the charging stations available along your route, using the ANWB electric car route planner for example.
2. Keep charging station information handy:
Install the ANWB Onderweg app to check charging stations and off-highway charging posts. This handy app shows not only the location of charging stations, but also their status and available connections.
3. Carry multiple charging passes:
It is wise to bring several charging passes with you, as not all charging stations accept the same passes. Make sure you are prepared for any situation.
4. Reserve a charging station at your destination:
If you plan to stay at a hotel with charging stations, try to book a charging station in advance. This will avoid unpleasant surprises during busy holiday seasons.
5. Make use of regenerative braking:
Make full use of regenerative braking, especially on mountain descents. This saves energy and reduces the load on your brakes.
6. Bring a 230V/Type 3 charging cable:
A home charging cable can come in handy if you can’t find a charging station and want to charge at a regular outlet.
7. Charge on time:
Don’t wait until your battery is low before charging. Try to charge when you have about 15 per cent battery charge left to avoid stressful situations.
8. Try to avoid traffic jams:
Sometimes it is better to take a slightly longer route to avoid busy traffic junctions. This can save you time and make your journey more pleasant.
9. Towing a caravan? Check capacity:
Not all electric cars are suitable for towing a caravan. Make sure your car has the necessary towing capacity before you set off with a caravan.
10. Consider other travel essentials:
Besides charging, don’t forget to think about other travel essentials, such as environmental stickers, mandatory equipment per country, roadside assistance for your EV, travel insurance and any winter tyres.
With these tips, you can take your electric car on holiday with confidence and without worries. Enjoy your trip!
