Long Distance EV Driving
Posted by Max Dunn Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:59:00 GMT
Some people envision that a network of public charging stations would allow EVs to make long trips. However, I am not so sure.
Even though the Leaf claims a 100 mile range, this is only possible with non-freeway driving. For the normal American driving habits, the EPA gives a range of 73 miles which is in-line with my Leaf experience. Also, if I drive hard on the freeway, then my range can be as low as 60 miles.
This means that when driving a far distance, you could drive for about an hour, then have to stop and DC fast charge for 30 minutes. Since the DC fast charge fills up the battery to only an 80% level, the next leg would be even shorter. Driving the 400 miles LA to from San Francisco normally takes about 6 and a half hours in a gas car, but an EV would require at least 6 recharges and take about 10 hours. Doable, but not very efficient.
Max,
Good point about the limitation of the public charging station network model. It makes sense for opportunity charging while shopping, dining and during other activities but that’s not what one plans to do when driving on a road trip.
However, if one has a Tesla Model S or X and can actually get near the the full 300 mile range promised then that changes everything—allowing one DC fast charge to provide enough energy to make the whole trip without even cutting it close.
Of course, if that only makes real sense if it’s convenient to be plugged in while having a meal, shopping or at least having wifi access to get some work done while waiting.