5 Road Trip Routes for Electric Vehicles in the USA

Planning a road trip in the USA with your electric vehicle?

Whether you're renting an EV or driving your own, this USA EV road trip planner will guide you through selecting the best routes, charging stations, and top destinations. You'll get access to maps and app recommendations to plan your route easily and ensure your battery stays charged for the entire trip. If you're visiting from another country, don't forget to check if you need an IDP or International Driving Permit to stay compliant with U.S. driving laws.

Load up your car, download your travel apps, and prepare for a smooth journey with this easy-to-follow plan for your EV road trip.

First up on our electric vehicle trip planner is Route 66, which runs from Chicago to Los Angeles. You might have seen this road in a classic scene or two, but it's also perfect for a long-distance EV road trip. Known as the "Mother Road," Route 66 spans around 2,400 miles and features approximately 20-30 charging stations along your route.

It's a great option for a two-week journey, with plenty of stops to charge your car's battery. Enter small towns, see famous landmarks, and go as far as you want with this legendary single route.

• Length: 2,500 miles
• Charging Stops: Approximately 20-30 charging stations are available along the route.
  • Notable Spots: Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, NM
  • La Posada Hotel in Winslow, AZ
  • Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman, AZ

California's Pacific Coast Highway, from San Diego to Mendocino, is a great route to include in your EV trip planner. This drive offers EV charging stations every 50 miles, making it an ideal option for electric car travelers. Along the way, enjoy coastal stops like the famous Hotel del Coronado, which offers Tesla chargers.

The estimated travel time for this itinerary depends on your model, but planning stops for charging is essential. With the right plan, you'll find the perfect balance between driving and recharging at well-placed EV charging stations.

• Length: 600 miles
• Charging Stops: Around 30 charging stations are located in popular tourist areas.
  • Notable Spots: Big Sur for stunning coastal views
  • Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey
  • Santa Barbara for beaches and wine tasting

The Cascade Loop, running from Seattle to Whidbey Island, is one of America's best routes for electric vehicles. This EV-friendly route has been equipped with charging stations since 2014, making it a breeze for EV drivers. Planning your trip involves using tools like PlugShare and a good route planner to account for your car's driving range.

With charging stations strategically placed along the way, this diverse route takes you through beaches, mountains, and charming towns. Get your EV ready and enjoy the ride confidently, knowing you've got your trip mapped out.

• Length: 440 miles
• Charging Stops: Approximately 15 charging stations are available along the route.
  • Notable Spots: North Cascades National Park for hiking and scenic views
  • Leavenworth, a Bavarian-themed village
  • Deception Pass State Park for breathtaking landscapes

The Atlantic Coast drive from Portland, Maine, to Miami, Florida, is perfect for those looking to travel the eastern seaboard with an electric vehicle. Charging stations are conveniently available about every 70 miles, ensuring your battery stays full throughout the trip.

The route passes through historic coastal cities, offering plenty of stops. From enjoying lobster rolls in Portland to soaking up the southern charm in Miami, this trip provides a great mix of food and culture. Plan with your EV route, and you'll have an easy, well-charged drive to your destination.

• Length: 1,600 miles
• Charging Stops: About 20 charging stations along the route.
  • Notable Spots: Acadia National Park in Maine
  • Historic Savannah, Georgia
  • Everglades National Park, Florida

Last but not least, the road trip from Vegas to the Grand Canyon is perfect for EV drivers. With numerous DC Fast Chargers along the way, this trip makes reaching one of America's most famous natural wonders easy and stress-free.

You won't have to worry about running out of battery as plenty of charging points keep you going. Plan, check your charging stops, and enjoy a smooth drive to the Grand Canyon, all while enjoying the convenience of EV charging without range anxiety.

• Length: Approximately 253 miles
• Charging Stops: About 5-7 charging stations along the way.
  • Notable Spots: Hoover Dam for a historical stop
  • Grand Canyon National Park for breathtaking views
  • Route 66 Historic District in Kingman, AZ

Planning for your first EV road trip in the USA requires preparation like any other trip. From charging stations to route mapping, these tips will help you plan your next electric vehicle road trip without hassle.

Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable EV journey.

It's essential to map out charging stations before starting your EV road trip. Websites like ChargeHub and Electrify America offer easy tools to find nearby chargers. Don't underestimate the distance—always plan your next stop. Adding Supercharger stations early in your route planner can keep your trip moving smoothly.

EVs have specific ranges, so knowing your car's limitations is important. Using the EV's range estimation tools can help you avoid range anxiety. Plan for frequent charging stops, and always have a backup option ready. A good route for your road trip will include enough time to recharge.

If you're not from the U.S. and are planning to rent an EV for your road trip, having an International Driving Permit is essential. Many rental companies require it, and it's a legal necessity in some states. You can easily get your IDP online from the International Driver's Association before starting your trip, ensuring you're ready to hit the road without any issues.

Using a reliable route planner app like ChargeHub can ensure you stay on track. These applications allow you to find charging stations, estimate distances, and even reset your plan if needed. For Tesla users, the Tesla model built-in planner automatically suggests Superchargers along the way.

Plan your charging breaks strategically to avoid wasting time. Many charging stations are located at rest stops or shopping areas, so you can recharge while grabbing a meal or stretching your legs. It's a smart way to make the most of your time using the EV while traveling.

Always keep your charging cables accessible. Many stations offer both standard and Supercharger options, but having your own cables ensures you're never stuck. Websites like Electrify America can show station details, so you'll know what to expect before you click on a station.

It's always wise to have a backup plan. Charging stations can be occupied or temporarily unavailable. Having alternate charging spots mapped through apps like ChargeHub or Electrify America will save time and reduce stress. Prepare for unexpected stops by including extra chargers in your EV trip planner.

To sum up, planning your first EV road trip in the USA requires thoughtful preparation. Mapping out charging stations, considering your car's range, and using apps like ChargeHub are key steps. Keep charging cables handy, and plan backup stops for charging. If you're visiting from outside the U.S., remember that having an International Driving Permit (IDP) is essential for renting an EV. Before starting your trip, you can easily obtain your IDP from the International Drivers Association.

With these tips, your EV road trip will be stress-free and enjoyable!