One of the big questions people often ask when considering an electric vehicle (EV) is whether they can really travel long distances with one. It’s a fair question. We’ve all heard stories about “range anxiety,” the fear that your EV might run out of charge in the middle of nowhere, leaving you stranded. But is this concern still valid today? Can you really take an EV on a road trip without worrying about running out of juice? Let’s dive into it.
First, let’s talk about how far EVs can actually go on a single charge. This is where we’ve seen some of the biggest improvements in recent years. Early electric vehicles had limited ranges, often around 100 miles, which made long-distance travel a challenge. But today’s EVs are a different story. Take, for example, some of the models available at EVEC. The 2024 Mercedes EQE, for instance, boasts an impressive range of 298 miles, which can comfortably handle most long trips within Nigeria. Then there’s the Tesla Model X Plaid. It has the most power and the quickest acceleration of any SUV, traveling 350 miles on a single charge. This means that, in theory, you could drive from Abuja to Kaduna or even Abuja to Kano without needing to stop and recharge.
So, yes, modern EVs can travel long distances. But there’s more to it than just the range. What about charging? Unlike in countries where fast-charging stations are readily available along highways, Nigeria currently lacks public charging infrastructure. This reality makes long-distance travel with an EV more challenging, but not impossible.
To make long distance trips with an EV in Nigeria, careful planning is essential. Since public charging stations aren’t available, the first thing to consider when planning such a journey is how long your battery can last on a full charge.
At the time of this writing, the EV with the longest range on sale in Nigeria is the Tesla Model X Plaid, which boasts approximately 556km of pure electric range. Second to it is the Mercedes-Benz EQE 2024, with a range of 446km on a full charge.
Don’t worry if you’re not sure how far your EV can go on a full charge. When you start your car, a pop up on your dashboard will tell you how many miles you have left before you need to plug in and recharge.
Tips for long distance driving in an electric car
1. Charge overnight when you can. Regular rapid charging can negatively affect your battery life in the long run, so it’s not recommended. If your plan will allow for it, stay over at a friend’s house or a hotel where you can plug-in overnight. You’ll wake up in the morning well-rested and with a full charge.
2. Try not to let your battery drop below 30% before you start thinking of a recharge. This is in the case of a long road trip. It’s quicker to top up and continue your journey because you don’t have to start from zero charge.
3. Maintain a steady, cruising speed of around 60 mph to conserve energy. Higher speeds generally mean that your battery life will drain faster.
4. Invest in a portable level 2 charger. Portable EV chargers are expensive but could give you fairly fast boost in emergency situations. Unlike the home charging solutions, level 2 chargers can get you a 50 percent boost in an hour, depending on your battery size.
Of course, long-distance travel in an EV isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the journey itself. EVs offer a unique driving experience that can make your road trip even more enjoyable. For one, they’re incredibly quiet, with smooth acceleration and no engine noise, which can make for a more relaxing drive. Plus, the technology packed into these vehicles—like advanced driver assistance systems, intuitive infotainment, and top-notch comfort features—adds to the overall travel experience.
Let’s not forget the environmental impact. Every mile you drive in an electric vehicle is a mile driven without contributing to tailpipe emissions. That’s a big deal, especially if you’re someone who cares about reducing your carbon footprint. And with the growing availability of renewable energy, the electricity you use to charge your EV can be even cleaner, making your long-distance journey not just possible, but also more sustainable.
Are you in the market for an electric car or just thinking about making the switch and want to know more? Check out our handy advice and friendly guides here or visit EVEC at 7 Hombori Street, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja – we’ll advise you on the best model for your needs.
