Electric Vehicle Charging: How It Has Impacted My Driving Experience

Living with an electric vehicle (EV) has brought about a significant change in my driving routine, particularly in the way I plan and execute road trips. For years, I have been using my electric Tesla Model 3, and the experience of charging my car has become an integral part of my journey. Gone are the days of frequent stops at gas stations, replaced by more relaxed and enjoyable charging stops that offer me the opportunity to explore new restaurants and even découpage my driving experience.

No More Frequent Stops at Gas Stations

One of the most noticeable benefits is the elimination of frequent stops at gas stations. Previously, I would need to fuel up my gasoline car every few days, a chore that I can now avoid entirely. My Tesla Model 3, being one of the longer ranged and faster charging vehicles available, simplifies the process entirely. I can charge my car at home, a process that takes just 7 seconds to plug in and unplug, making it a seamless addition to my daily routine. This convenience is particularly beneficial in inclement weather conditions, such as cold, rainy days, where I don’t have to brave the elements to find a gas station.

Enjoying the Road Trip Experience

Charging during road trips has transformed my driving experience into a more leisurely one. On longer journeys, I can match my charging stops with meals, allowing me to discover new restaurants along the way. While driving a gasoline car, I would often focus strictly on reaching my destination, which left little room for exploration. With an electric vehicle, I have the freedom to take a more relaxed approach, savoring the journey and relaxing while waiting for my car to charge.

Planning and Efficiency

Of course, EV charging also comes with planning, especially when traveling long distances. One of the major challenges is the availability of level 3 non-Tesla chargers, which can be more sparsely distributed compared to traditional gas stations. On the highway, you can find a gas station every mile, but level 3 chargers may be far and few between, typically every 7 miles or so depending on your location. This requires careful planning to ensure you have a charging stop scheduled, and backups in case of unexpected delays or outages.

The YouTube channel of Bjrn Nyland offers some interesting insights into the differences between EVs and gasoline cars in long-distance driving scenarios. In his “races” between electric and gasoline vehicles, he follows a set of rules that ensure a fair comparison. The results consistently show that EVs can be just as efficient, if not more, in terms of time compared to gasoline cars.

Charging at Home and on the Go

When it comes to charging at home, the process is straightforward and convenient. Once I am done driving for the day, I plug my car in, and by the next morning, it is fully charged. However, the time to charge varies depending on the type of charger and the car's range. It can take anywhere from 2 hours to 7 hours at home. But this duration never impacts my driving experience, as long as I plan ahead and know the location of level 3 chargers along my route.

The availability of level 3 chargers remains a challenge, especially in remote areas or during unexpected detours. To ensure a worry-free journey, I always double-check the charging availability before hitting the road, particularly if I plan to travel for an extended period. Planning ahead and being prepared are key to making the most out of my electric vehicle.

In conclusion, the transition to an electric vehicle has transformed my driving experience, offering both new challenges and unique opportunities. From the convenience of charging at home to the adventurous spirit of exploring new restaurants during road trips, the electric vehicle has opened up a world of possibilities. While the availability of infrastructure remains an ongoing issue, the overall experience is more enjoyable and less stressful than before.