6 tips for a carefree trip with your EV

Although the number of charging points is growing rapidly and we now have on our charging network more than 250,000 public charge points across Europe, it is advisable to check carefully before your trip where charge points are available on your chosen route. Apps, such as the Shell Recharge app, provide you with real-time information about available charging points.

Another useful tool is the A Better Route Planner. This route planner shows you the best places to charge on the way to your destination and displays handy details such as what battery percentage will reach the fast charger and how long the charging stop will take.

Did you know that 59% of EV drivers have two or more charge cards? In practice, one charge card is often sufficient, even when driving abroad, but it’s recommended to bring more than one in case it gets losts or unexpected problems arise. Make sure your charge card is activated at least two weeks before you leave home and check that it works properly before you start your journey. This way you won’t encounter any surprises while on the road. If you drive a leased car, check with your leasing company whether you have coverage abroad. You can check whether your card can be used everywhere at laadpastop10.nl.

At a growing number of charge points, you can fortunately also charge without a charge card by scanning a QR code (ad hoc charging) or pay via contactless. At some of the charging points in our charging network, it is also possible to start and stop charging using the Shell Recharge app.

Almost half of EV drivers are already aware of the range of their EV. Especially on a long-distance trip, it is advisable to pay close attention to this and make the best use of your EV battery. Your battery will last longer by not driving too fast (no faster than 100 km per hour), by driving steadily (cruise control), by avoiding traffic jams, by using regenerative braking (energy recovery), by taking the weather into account and by keeping your tire pressures as low as possible. Build in a margin and do not completely empty your battery. Therefore, as a rule of thumb, if your charge status is between 10-20%, stop. At that level, you’ll still be able to drive to a different charge point location if your first choice is occupied or faulty. This way, range anxiety is avoided.

13% of EV drivers say they never use a fast charger. This is of course particularly the case for day-to-day traffic. Currently, more than 20,000 fast chargers are already available in Europe. You can find them on the Shell Recharge app (or similar apps) by filtering the charging speed to >43 kW. Depending on whether your vehicle supports it, it can be wise to have the battery prepared in advance for fast charging just before you arrive at the fast charger.

It’s also recommended to find a location that has multiple fast chargers, so in case of traffic, you’ll have more chances to find a free charger.

While fast charging when travelling is handy and quick, it also usually comes with a slightly higher cost than regular charging. However, more and more large retailers and roadside restaurants in Europe offer free charging in their parking lots, becoming a convenient way of charging for free while taking a break. Please do note that for some of these locations, you will need to request a charge card.

Make it easy on yourself by charging at places you plan to stop at as well as at your final destination. Find out in advance whether your overnight stay or final destination has a charging facility. This way you’ll start the day with a full battery and won’t lose any time looking for a charge point en route.

Energy is available almost everywhere, so if you have enough time it is almost always possible to charge. For emergencies, don't forget to bring with you a 3-pin-plug to charge at 230 Volts.

You are now ready to hit the road with your EV. Drive safe, plan ahead and enjoy the ride.