As the Great British summertime warms up, drivers across the UK will be planning road trips and staycations – and EV drivers are no exception. Most modern EVs can handle hundreds of miles on a single charge, making them a green and efficient way to adventure across the UK.
How to plan a stress-free EV journey
Our team have compiled their top tips to help make your EV road trip as straightforward as possible.
How to increase your EV’s range during a road trip
These simple habits can significantly increase the distance you get from a single EV charge while improving overall driving efficiency:
- Use sat nav, even on familiar routes: this helps to optimise efficiency by factoring in traffic, hills, and speeds to reduce unnecessary battery drain.
- Precondition while plugged in: heat or cool the cabin using mains power before you leave, preserving battery range and improving efficiency with a warm battery.
- Remove extra weight: the heavier the car, the more energy it needs to move – declutter your car and take off any unused roof racks.
- Drive smoothly and steadily: Maintain a consistent speed, avoid harsh acceleration and braking, and maximise regenerative braking to recover energy. If your car has an eco-mode, then using it can help to boost range.
- Check tyre pressure regularly: Properly inflated tyres reduce rolling resistance, lowering energy use and helping extend range.
Top five UK EV road trip journeys
Our team analysed 25 of the UK’s most popular road trips to find the best routes for EV drivers. Each journey was assessed on the number of charging stations, accommodation with EV charging, and attractions per mile.
Claiming the top spot is Barnstaple to Penzance. This Devon and Cornwall route stretches 180 miles, EV drivers can expect around two charging stations, and eight accommodation options with EV charging per 10 miles, ensuring easy access to power throughout the journey. The route is packed with things to see and do, boasting 5,667 attractions across the journey, equating to around 31 attractions per mile, giving travellers plenty of reasons to stop and explore along the way.
The Peak District comes in second, offering around two charging stations and nine EV-friendly places to stay per 10 miles. Covering charming villages like Bakewell and the Hope Valley, the route includes 10 attractions per mile, perfect for short stops and longer adventures alike. Its combination of accessibility and natural beauty makes it a favourite for EV road trippers.
Dorset ranks third, with around three charging stations and three accommodation options with EV charging per 10 miles. Holidaymakers can stop off in historic towns, coastal paths, and enjoy the picturesque countryside. This route also offers 19 attractions per mile, allowing travellers to mix sightseeing with relaxation along the route.
The Lake District, famed for its natural beauty, is fourth on the list. Although charging stations are slightly lower at around one every 33 miles, there are twenty-six EV-friendly accommodation options across the same distance, providing peace of mind for overnight stays. The route features 17 attractions per mile, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the region’s lakes, mountains, and cultural landmarks.
Rounding out the top five, the Atlantic Highway stretches across Devon and Cornwall’s northern coast. This route has the highest charging station density in the top five, with around four charging stations per 10 miles, although accommodation is more limited at around two options every 10 miles. With four attractions per mile, it’s ideal for drivers who prioritise accessible charging while enjoying scenic coastal views.
