Can I Make Long Distance Trips in an EV?

Charging an EV is more convenient and less expensive than making a trip to the gas station. For many drivers, the biggest concern about switching to an EV is range anxiety. That is, the worry that their EVs won’t have enough charge to get them to their destination. Are you concerned about switching to an EV? We’re here to answer your questions.

How far can EVs go?

The median EV range is 234 miles, and 90% of trips taken on a daily basis are easily within the range of the average EV. But what about the 10% of trips that cover long distances? Not only are long-distance trips possible in an EV, but they also become easier every day with advancements in EV technology. The average EV range increases significantly every year and is nearly four times what it was a decade ago.

Check out Bloomberg Green’s EV car ratings to compare different EV models by range and price.

Are there enough charging stations?

You can find plenty of places to charge your EV at locations that you may already be visiting on your route — grocery store parking lots, parking garages, workplaces, hotels, highway rest stops, public parks, and more. Some locations even have fast chargers, which can power your car in as little as 30 minutes.

To find an EV charging station near you or on your route, visit the PlugShare map on our website or use your preferred EV charging station locator app. For longer trips, EV road trip planners can help you determine the best route and ensure that you don’t run out of charge.

Charging infrastructure is continuing to grow to meet future demand and support California’s goal of 1.5 million EVs by 2025. MCE has installed and committed over 1,250 EV charging ports in our service area and we’re eager to do more. The U.S. government is also deploying new EV infrastructure across the country and has plans for at least one EV charging station every 50 miles on the interstate highway system.

Can I afford to take a road trip in an EV?

Compared to those who drive EVs and charge up with MCE’s Deep Green 100% renewable energy, gas car drivers pay about 200% more annually to fill their tanks. MCE’s residential EV rate is a cost-effective way to charge your EV at home with lower rates for charging after 9 p.m. or before 4 p.m. This rate supports the power grid by encouraging charging and energy use during times when renewable energy generation is plentiful and demand is lower.

In addition to saving on charging, you’ll also save on maintenance. EVs don’t require the kind of regular maintenance that we’re used to with gas cars like oil changes and smog checks. While EVs only have around 20 moving parts, gas-fueled cars have over 2,000 moving parts, which can result in unexpected maintenance issues and additional trips and payments to the mechanic.

Ready to upgrade to an EV?

MCE offers income-qualified residents a $3,500 rebate for purchasing or leasing a new EV. You can receive free assistance to take advantage of all available rebates and incentives. Combining federal, state, and local incentives can significantly reduce the cost of purchasing a new or used EV. Depending on your eligibility, you could receive up to $13,750 in EV rebates, or even more if you trade in a 2005 or older gas-powered vehicle.

If you’re not ready to go fully electric just yet, consider investing in a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). PHEVs run on electricity and use gas as backup. These vehicles can be charged at an EV charging station and can also be filled with gasoline. When the battery is depleted, PHEVs automatically switch to the gas combustion engine.