When I bought my Tesla, I knew that charging would be different from filling up a gas tank. But as I started planning road trips and longer drives, I quickly realized that understanding how to plan charging stops was essential.
With electric vehicles (EVs), you have to consider range, charging times, and the availability of charging stations, which are factors that most gas-powered car drivers don’t have to worry about.
Over time, I’ve learned how to plan my Tesla charging stops effectively, and it has become a routine that makes my trips smoother, less expensive, and even more enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a long road trip or just need to know the best way to organize your charging stops, this guide will walk you through everything I’ve learned.
Let’s dive into the details of how to plan Tesla charging stops for convenience, comfort, and cost savings.
Why Planning Tesla Charging Stops Is Important
Charging an EV isn’t the same as stopping for gas. While a gas stop takes a few minutes, charging can take longer, depending on your charger type and battery level. Planning is essential to avoid “range anxiety” (the fear of running out of battery before finding a charger) and to save both time and money.
Benefits of Planning Charging Stops
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you’ll have enough range to reach the next stop reduces stress and allows you to focus on enjoying the journey.
- Efficient Use of Time: With a well-planned route, you can combine charging stops with meal breaks or sightseeing, making each stop feel productive.
- Reduced Costs: Planning allows you to take advantage of the most affordable charging options, helping you save on overall trip expenses.
Using Tesla’s Navigation System for Charging Stops
Tesla’s built-in navigation system is a fantastic tool for planning charging stops. It helps you manage your battery level and ensures you have enough power to reach your destination or the next charging point.
Inputting Your Destination
When I enter my destination into the Tesla navigation, it automatically calculates my route and suggests charging stops based on my car’s battery level, current range, and the route distance.
- Battery Monitoring: The system continuously monitors your battery level and adjusts the route if your power drops, adding extra stops as needed.
- Real-Time Updates: If there are unexpected delays, such as traffic, the navigation will recalibrate to ensure you’re still on track.
Customizing Stops Based on Preferences
While Tesla’s navigation provides suggested stops, I often adjust based on my preferences.
- Frequent Short Stops vs. Longer Stops: On some trips, I prefer quick top-ups at multiple Superchargers, while on others, I choose longer breaks to recharge more fully. Adjusting stops allows me to tailor the trip based on my schedule and comfort.
- Choosing Specific Superchargers: Some Superchargers are more convenient for food, restrooms, or scenic spots. By selecting Superchargers with these amenities, I can make my stops more enjoyable.
Estimating Charging Times
Tesla’s navigation provides an estimated charging time for each stop, helping me plan how long I’ll need to charge before resuming my drive. This way, I can combine charging stops with meal breaks, coffee stops, or even a quick walk.
Choosing Between Superchargers, Destination Chargers, and Public Stations
Different types of chargers serve different purposes, and knowing when to use each one can save time and money. Here’s a breakdown of each charging option and when I use them.
Superchargers: Fast and Convenient
Tesla Superchargers are the quickest charging option, often able to recharge my battery from 10% to 80% in 20-40 minutes. They’re perfect for road trips when I need a fast top-up.
- Pros: Superchargers are fast, reliable, and Tesla-specific, which means compatibility and easy access.
- Cons: They tend to be more expensive than other options, and some locations may charge higher rates during peak times.
Destination Chargers: Great for Long Stays
Destination chargers, often found at hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, are Level 2 chargers, meaning they’re slower than Superchargers. These chargers are ideal for longer stops, like overnight stays.
- Pros: Many destination chargers are free for customers, which can reduce costs significantly.
- Cons: These chargers are slower and may take several hours to fully recharge the battery, which is fine for overnight charging but not ideal for short pit stops.
Public Charging Stations: Backup Options
Non-Tesla charging networks like EVgo, ChargePoint, and Electrify America offer public charging stations. I use these as backups when Superchargers or destination chargers aren’t available.
- Pros: Public chargers are available in many areas where Tesla chargers might not be, offering flexibility.
- Cons: Speeds can vary widely, and some stations require a membership or app for access, which can be less convenient than Tesla’s plug-and-play Superchargers.
Considering Range, Weather, and Terrain
To plan charging stops effectively, I take into account factors that affect my car’s range. These include speed, weather, and terrain, which all impact how far I can go between charges.
Impact of Speed on Range
Higher speeds consume more battery power, reducing range. On highways, I try to maintain a steady speed to balance making good time and conserving battery.
- Driving Tip: I avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as a smoother driving style conserves energy and allows me to drive longer before needing to recharge.
Weather Effects on Range
Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect battery efficiency and reduce range. When traveling in these conditions, I plan extra charging stops.
- Cold Weather: In winter, I precondition the battery while it’s still plugged in, which conserves energy during the drive.
- Hot Weather: On hot days, I avoid charging to 100% to prevent battery wear, as high temperatures can cause quicker degradation.
Terrain Considerations
Hilly or mountainous roads require more power than flat roads. When driving through these areas, I keep a closer eye on my battery level and plan for additional charging stops if needed.
Using Apps to Plan and Manage Charging Stops
While Tesla’s navigation is helpful, I also use apps to expand my options and make charging stops even easier to plan.
PlugShare
PlugShare is a fantastic app for finding all types of charging stations, including Tesla and non-Tesla options. It provides locations, reviews, and even pictures of chargers.
- Favorite Feature: User reviews help me know what to expect at each location, such as nearby amenities and the likelihood of finding an open charger.
ChargePoint
ChargePoint is another useful app for finding public chargers. I’ve used ChargePoint stations at shopping centers and grocery stores, making it a convenient backup option.
- Favorite Feature: ChargePoint shows the cost per kWh, allowing me to compare rates and plan my budget for charging stops.
Tesla App
The Tesla app itself is essential for managing charging. It shows real-time charging progress, estimated time to completion, and even notifies me when the charge is almost done.
- Idle Fee Alerts: The app sends a notification when charging is nearly complete, helping me avoid idle fees if I’m at a Supercharger.
Planning Charging Stops for Different Tesla Models
Tesla models vary in battery size and range, which can impact charging stop planning. Here’s how I adapt based on my specific Tesla model.
Model-Specific Charging Needs
For instance, a Tesla Model 3 has a different range than a Model X or Model S. If I’m driving a Model 3 with a 250-mile range, I may need more frequent stops than someone in a Model S with a longer range.
- Estimating Costs: Each model has a different cost per mile due to battery capacity and range, so planning stops based on my specific model helps me stay efficient.
Battery Degradation and Planning Adjustments
Over time, battery health affects range, so older Tesla models may require more frequent stops. I keep an eye on my battery health and adjust charging stops accordingly, especially on long trips.
Tips for Reducing Charging Costs on the Road
Charging at Superchargers can add up, so here are some strategies I use to keep costs down.
Free Destination Charging
Many hotels and some restaurants offer free charging for customers. By choosing to stay at hotels with free destination chargers, I can save significantly on charging costs.
Off-Peak Charging
Some Superchargers offer lower rates during off-peak hours. If my schedule allows, I plan to charge during these hours to take advantage of lower prices.
Charging Just Enough for the Next Stop
Instead of fully charging at each stop, I sometimes charge just enough to reach the next Supercharger. This reduces the time and cost of charging since the last 20% of the battery takes longer and costs more to charge.
Budgeting for Charging Costs on a Road Trip
Estimating charging costs for a road trip helps me budget effectively. Here’s how I do it.
Estimating Costs by Distance
For example, if I know my Model 3 costs roughly $15 to go 250 miles on a Supercharger, I can calculate the cost for my total trip.
- Example Calculation: For a 1,000-mile trip, I would budget around $60 for charging.
Factoring in Free or Low-Cost Charging
By planning to stay at hotels with free destination chargers or using public chargers with lower rates, I can reduce my budget. This approach allows me to take advantage of the cheapest options available.
Enjoying Scenic or Unique Charging Stops
Charging stops don’t have to be just a functional part of the trip. I like to look for scenic or unique charging locations to make my stops more enjoyable.
Choosing Charging Stops with Attractions
Some Superchargers are near parks, shopping areas, or even scenic viewpoints. By choosing these stops, I get to enjoy the local sights while my car charges, making each stop feel like part of the adventure.
Planning Stops at Popular Tesla Charging Spots
Some Superchargers have become popular destinations for Tesla owners, and visiting these spots can add a social element to the trip. Meeting other Tesla owners and sharing tips makes the experience more enjoyable.
Packing Essentials for Charging Stops
To make charging stops more comfortable and productive, I pack a few essentials.
Snacks and Drinks
While some Superchargers are near food options, others aren’t, so I always have snacks and water in the car to keep me refreshed.
Entertainment
A book, magazine, or my phone can make the wait time feel shorter, especially at slower chargers or during longer stops.
Phone Charger
Since I rely on my phone for navigation and apps, I always bring a charger so I can keep my phone powered during the trip.
Myths About EV Charging Stops
There are several common myths about EV charging that I encountered early on. Here’s what I’ve learned to separate fact from fiction.
“Charging Stops Make Road Trips Harder”
Many people think EV road trips are difficult because of charging. While it does take planning, I’ve found that charging stops offer a chance to take breaks, stretch, and even enjoy local spots, making the trip more relaxed.
“You’ll Always Find a Charger When You Need One”
Although Tesla’s Supercharger network is growing, charging stations aren’t as common as gas stations, especially in remote areas. Planning ahead ensures you’re never caught without power.
Future Trends in EV Charging Technology
Tesla and other EV companies are constantly innovating, and I’m excited about the future of EV charging. Here’s what I think will make charging stops even easier.
Faster Charging Stations
Tesla and other networks are working on faster chargers, which could reduce charging times from 30 minutes to under 10 minutes. This advancement could make road trips even more efficient.
Expanding Charging Networks
More chargers are being installed in remote and rural areas, which will make it easier to travel far distances without worrying about range.
In conclusion, Planning Tesla charging stops has become second nature for me, and with the right tools and strategies, it can be a straightforward part of any EV journey. From using Tesla’s navigation and third-party apps to understanding range, costs, and even finding unique stops, each trip is an opportunity to enjoy the journey and the freedom of EV driving.
By preparing for each trip with the right planning, budgeting, and packing, I’ve found that charging stops don’t just keep my Tesla powered but also make the journey more enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply want to master your daily route, I hope these tips help make your Tesla charging experience smooth, fun, and cost-effective.