Road Trip in the Electric Age, Lessons from the Kia EV6, Kia EV6
I recently took my 2024 Kia EV6 on an 800-mile road trip from upstate New York to Richmond, Virginia. While I’d been impressed with the EV6’s performance in daily driving, this long-distance journey offered a unique opportunity to test its limits and learn some valuable lessons about electric road trips.
The Unexpected Hero: Walmart
One of the most surprising discoveries was the role of Walmart in the EV charging infrastructure. These big-box stores have been rapidly adding Electrify America DC fast chargers to their parking lots, making them convenient and reliable charging spots, especially in less-traveled areas.
Planning Your Route: A Crucial Step
Despite the EV6’s impressive range and fast-charging capabilities, effective route planning is essential. I initially underestimated the importance of careful route selection, especially in areas with less developed charging infrastructure. Relying solely on the car’s navigation system can lead to suboptimal routes and unexpected stops.
To optimize your trip, consider using third-party route planning tools like A Better Route Planner (ABRP). These tools can help you identify the fastest and most efficient routes, taking into account factors like charging speeds, charger availability, and real-time traffic conditions.
Leveraging Eco Mode for Maximum Efficiency
Another valuable tip is to utilize Eco Mode. While it may seem counterintuitive to reduce power output on a road trip, Eco Mode can significantly improve efficiency, especially on highways. By minimizing the use of the front electric motor and optimizing power delivery, Eco Mode can extend your range and reduce charging time.
The Evolving EV Landscape
The EV landscape is rapidly evolving, with new models, improved charging infrastructure, and more advanced technology emerging all the time. While challenges still exist, particularly in terms of charging infrastructure in certain regions, the overall experience of owning and driving an EV is becoming increasingly convenient and enjoyable.
As we continue to embrace electric vehicles, it’s important to learn from experiences like mine and share knowledge to help others make informed decisions and have successful EV road trips.
