Planning a long journey in an electric vehicle

Electric vehicles are brilliant for West Country driving, but a long journey — say, from Cornwall to the Cotswolds or Devon to London — needs a bit more thought than a quick fill-up at the services. The good news is that with a little planning, you can travel confidently and enjoy the ride. Here’s how to do it.

Map your route and charging stops before you set off

Start by plotting your route and identifying rapid charging hubs along the way. For most West Country drivers, that means the M5 corridor and the A30 if you’re heading into or out of Cornwall. Aim to stop every two to two-and-a-half hours, or roughly every 100 to 150 miles, depending on your car’s real-world range. Use a charging map app to check live availability and connector types — you’ll almost certainly need CCS for rapid charging. Plan to arrive at each charger with at least 10–20% battery left, and don’t charge beyond 80% on a rapid unit unless you have to; the last 20% takes far longer and blocks the bay for others.

It’s also worth checking whether your chosen stops have multiple chargers. A single rapid point at a remote service area is a risk. Two or three nearby gives you options.

Allow for weather, traffic and topography

Cold weather is the biggest range killer. On a frosty morning, you can lose 20–30% of your usual range, and rain or headwinds add to that. The hills of Devon and Cornwall also draw more energy than flat motorway cruising. Before you leave, check the forecast and add a generous buffer — think 20% extra in winter, 10% in mild conditions. If your car has a pre-conditioning function, use it while plugged in to warm the battery and cabin. That way you’re not stealing range to defrost the windscreen.

Traffic is another factor. Stop-start jams are less efficient than steady driving, and if you’re stuck for an hour in the cold, you’ll be using battery for heating. Keep an eye on live traffic updates and be ready to reroute. But remember: a diversion might take you away from your planned charger. Always know where the next alternative is.

Have a backup plan for busy charging hubs

Service areas on the M5 can get hectic, especially on summer Saturdays, bank holidays and Friday evenings. Queues for rapid chargers are frustrating, but they’re manageable if you plan ahead. Before you arrive, check live status on your app. If all chargers are busy, don’t just wait — look for a nearby town or retail park with a rapid charger, even if it’s a short detour. Sometimes a slower charger while you eat a proper meal is quicker than queuing for a 150kW unit.

• Never rely on one charger. Have at least two alternatives within range.
• Charge to 80% and move on. It’s polite and keeps things flowing.
• Keep your RFID cards and apps ready. Not all chargers accept contactless.
• If you must queue, don’t unplug someone else. Ask, or wait your turn.

Also, consider charging overnight at your destination if possible. Many hotels and B&Bs now have destination chargers, and a full battery in the morning saves you a stop on the way home.

Prepare your car and your kit

A few simple checks before you leave can save hassle later. Check your tyre pressures — under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance and cut range. Make sure your charging cables are in the boot: a Type 2 cable for untethered destination chargers, and your CCS cable if your car doesn’t have one tethered (most rapid units provide cables, but it’s worth knowing). A three-pin plug cable is a last resort, but it’s slow — only for emergencies.

Pack smart: water, snacks, a blanket, and a torch. If you’re travelling with children, plan charging stops around meals and leg-stretching. And check your breakdown cover covers EVs — some policies need an upgrade.

Adjust your driving to stretch the range

Once you’re on the road, a few habits can add miles. Smooth acceleration and gentle braking make the most of regenerative braking. Use eco mode if you have it. On the motorway, keep to 60–65mph — dropping from 70mph can add 10–15% to your range. Use adaptive cruise control if it helps you maintain a steady speed.

Heating and air conditioning are big drains. In winter, use heated seats and a heated steering wheel instead of blasting the cabin heater. In summer, use the air con sparingly and pre-cool while plugged in. If you’re climbing a long hill, don’t worry about the range dropping — you’ll regain some on the way down.

Finally, don’t let range anxiety spoil your trip. With a bit of planning, West Country EV journeys are easy and enjoyable. Give yourself time, build in buffers, and treat charging stops as a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the view.