You Need These Apps For Electric Car Road Trips
Picture this: You’re cruising down a scenic highway, the landscape changing from bustling cities to tranquil mountains, and all the while, your electric vehicle (EV) hums smoothly, powered by the sun and a little bit of your own imagination. But between the idyllic scenery and the fun of the open road, there’s an essential element that can turn an exciting road trip into a nail-biting experience: charging your EV. This is where the right apps can be your best companions.
Whether you’re a seasoned EV owner or are considering taking the plunge into the electric revolution, having the right mobile applications at your fingertips can transform your road trips into seamless adventures. Let’s dive into the must-have apps that will make your electric road journey both enjoyable and stress-free.
1. PlugShare
Let’s start with one of the most popular apps out there: PlugShare. Imagine having a community-driven platform where users not only share the locations of charging stations but also post real-time updates about their availability.
Why You’ll Love It:
PlugShare allows you to filter charging stations by type—be it Tesla Superchargers, CCS, or CHAdeMO—that suits your EV best. You can see user ratings, comments, and even photos of the charging stations, which is invaluable when you’re eyeing a pit stop.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: User-generated content ensures real-time information, community tips, and a variety of filter options.
- Cons: Some charging locations may not be updated regularly by users, so always double-check if you’re in a hurry.
2. ChargePoint
If you’re looking for a reliable and user-friendly experience, ChargePoint tops the charts. This app not only maps out hundreds of thousands of charging stations but also allows you to start your charge directly from your phone.
Why You’ll Love It:
You can plan your route based on charging stations and even monitor your charging progress in real-time. Plus, the app’s seamless payment options make it easy to complete your charging without fumbling for your wallet.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Real-time charging status and in-app payment make it a breeze.
- Cons: Some stations require an account to access, which can be a minor hassle for newcomers.
3. A Better Routeplanner (ABRP)
Now, if you want to plan your entire trip with precision, A Better Routeplanner is the app for you. This isn’t just a charging station locator. It’s a full-fledged trip planner that calculates the optimal route, charging locations, and even the expected time it will take to reach your destination.
Why You’ll Love It:
ABRP takes into account variables like weather, vehicle load, and even your driving style for accurate predictions. Just imagine cruising through the Western Ghats, stopping at beautifully appointed charging stations with the perfect itinerary mapped out.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Highly customizable for any EV, considering many factors for optimal planning.
- Cons: The learning curve can be a bit steep for newbies, as the app has a plethora of features.
4. Google Maps
You might already be using Google Maps, but it’s worth mentioning for EV drivers. Not only can you navigate, but it now shows EV charging stations along your route too.
Why You’ll Love It:
You can easily check the operating status of the station (if available) or call them directly to confirm anything before you hit the road.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Familiar interface and built-in features make it easy to navigate both roads and charging spots.
- Cons: Limited filtering options compared to dedicated EV apps.
5. Tesla Supercharger Network (for Tesla Owners)
If you’re driving a Tesla, the built-in navigation and the Supercharger Network app are designed specifically for you. It directs you to the nearest Supercharger stations and calculates your route based on charging needs.
Why You’ll Love It:
The integration with your vehicle is seamless, providing all the necessary metrics like average miles per hour for charging.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Real-time data and updates ensure you’re never left stranded.
- Cons: Not usable for non-Tesla models.
Buyer Advice – Choosing The Right Plan
While all these apps are free to download, some may offer premium features for a fee. Before you commit, make sure to consider how frequently you’ll be using the app and the specific features you need.
For instance, if you plan to travel primarily in urban areas, PlugShare’s community updates may serve you well. On the other hand, long haulers who rely on exact route planning may want to invest more time into A Better Routeplanner.
Real-World Example
Consider my recent trip from Mumbai to Pune in my EV. I decided to rely heavily on PlugShare and ChargePoint. I plotted my stops at designated charging stations that were not only available but also had reviews mentioning nearby cafes. Imagine sipping a cup of local masala chai while your EV charged up for the next leg of the trip!
In conclusion, the vastness of India offers endless possibilities for EV road trips, but technology is your trusty sidekick. By downloading and utilizing the right apps, you can ensure that your adventures are not just electrifying but also worry-free. So, buckle up, charge your batteries, and hit the road!
Utsav is an automobile enthusiast and auto news writer with 2+ years of experience in the Indian car industry. He has covered major launches, done detailed car reviews, and follows trends in the EV segment.