7 Tips To Ensure Your Electric Vehicle Stays Charged On A Long Trip

Electric vehicles have become immensely popular in the last few years. With climate issues becoming more common, the need for eco-friendly modes of transport is also increasing. While electric vehicles or EVs are gaining traction with many, some still hesitate to opt for them. One of the main reasons for this is range anxiety. If you need to be more familiar with the term, it refers to the anxiety many EV owners may face regarding their EV’s battery life. Range anxiety may be particularly common if you are planning a long road trip. Hence, you must find strategies to ensure your battery stays charged for as long as possible.

How to Ensure Your EV Stays Charged for A Long Trip 

Before you head for your trip in your EV, make sure you have noted down the following points:

1. Plan your route 

This is a given when it comes to planning a long trip. However, it is all the more important when you are travelling in an EV. Since EVs function differently, you need to have a clear idea of where you are heading, how exactly you will get there, and how long it will take. Note down the highways, expressways, and any other routes you will be taking. Once you have that figured out, you can plan out the other resources for the trip.

2. Know where and how you can charge

Now that you have the route mapped out, you need to locate the charging stations on that route. To get a prior idea of the same, you can download charging apps that will help you locate charging stations on the route you are travelling to. You do not necessarily have to download the app made available by your EV brand. Most charging apps will feature all charging stations irrespective of the company. Some apps may even allow you to see and write reviews for charging stations, as well as let you know if there is a restaurant nearby. Thus, while your EV gets charged, you can get some refreshments.

3. Head to a place where there are multiple chargers

Even though you may find that a charging station is nearby, there is no surety that it will work out for you. The charging station may not be active or there may be a queue. Hence, if possible, have a plan B for your EV’s charging. Ideally, you should head to a location where there are multiple chargers.

4. Research your EV’s real charging time 

Even though EV manufacturers are trying their best to reduce the battery charging time of their vehicles, it is no secret that EVs tend to take a lot of time to get charged. Hence, it is advisable that you have an exact idea of how long it can take your bike/car to get charged completely. Depending on the vehicle and the charging station, it could take anywhere between an hour to three to four hours or more for a complete charge.

5.  Make sure to have a digital wallet or a credit card

If you want to use a public charging station via the brand’s app (which you will have to download to use the charging station), you need to pay via digital means. This can happen via debit/credit card, bank transfers or UPI platforms. Hence, ensure you have these set up before you head on your journey.

6. Have an extension cord for emergencies

There might be situations where you need charging but cannot find it anywhere. In such situations, the simplest way to charge your EV’s battery is to use an extension cord on a 15-amp wall socket. It might take more time (even an entire day in some cases) than a charging station would. However, given the circumstances, it might be the best option. It is also ideal for charging your EV while on an overnight stay.

7. Have an electric vehicle insurance plan 

With the rise in EVs, insurance providers have also started providing specialised electric vehicle insurance plans. With comprehensive electric vehicle insurance, you can rely on your insurer to help you out in case of out-of-energy breakdowns and other emergencies.* Bajaj Allianz also provides on-site charging services in selected cities under their 24/7 roadside assistance feature for electric vehicles. In case of out-of-energy breakdowns, your electric vehicle insurance plan can also help you by providing pick-up and drop (towing) services.* Along with assistance for battery issues and the like, electric scooter insurance and car insurance plans also provide coverage against natural disasters, theft, fire, and so on.* By opting for electric bike or electric car insurance and with the help of the above points, you can make your long trip easier, safer, and more peaceful. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under vehicle insurance policy.   *Standard T&C apply. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.