The American Southwest poses unique challenges for electric vehicle (EV) travelers, especially those from smaller countries with more compact road networks.
A recent road trip by a New Zealand family highlights the opportunities and obstacles faced by international EV users in the United States. With a rented Tesla Model Y, the Morgans embarked on a journey that tested their driving skills and ability to navigate the EV charging infrastructure in a region known for its long distances between towns.
The family planned meticulously due to the limited availability of charging stations in certain areas. Unlike New Zealand, where chargers are well-distributed, the American Southwest can be lacking in charging infrastructure. The Morgans' itinerary included iconic destinations like the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, with the added challenge of ensuring access to charging stations along the way. Fortunately, they found that a previously closed station in Kayenta had reopened just in time for their trip, allowing them to complete their planned route without major detours.
Driving an EV in a foreign country can be daunting, especially when adapting to different traffic patterns and road conditions. For Clayton Morgan, the head of the family, the initial days of the trip were a learning curve as he adjusted to driving on the right side of the road at higher speeds, while managing the Tesla's advanced navigation system. The family faced aggressive driving behaviors typical of American highways, but they mitigated range anxiety through effective planning and the use of tools like A Better Route Planner (ABRP) and Tesla's navigation system.
The Morgans' ambitious itinerary covered over 3,000 kilometers (approximately 1,800 miles) in just eight nights. This included a full day of driving that stretched to 12 hours, with eight hours behind the wheel and four hours spent charging. The family likely visited renowned national parks like Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Despite fatigue by the end of their journey, the experience provided valuable insights into the feasibility of long-distance EV travel in the U.S.
The Morgans' experience highlights the shift in perception of EVs as viable options for long-distance travel. Their successful trip shows that with proper planning and access to charging infrastructure, EVs can be a practical choice for families and travelers. While some may argue that only certain brands like Tesla can facilitate such journeys, the charging landscape is evolving. Non-Tesla fast chargers are becoming increasingly available, particularly in popular travel corridors, making it easier for a wider range of EVs to undertake similar adventures.
However, the journey also emphasizes the need for improvements in charging infrastructure. As the demand for EVs grows, the expansion of charging stations will be crucial to support a future where EVs are common on American roads. While the Morgans were able to navigate their route successfully, there are still gaps in the network, especially in less-traveled areas and national parks that are not part of major tourist routes. Addressing these gaps is essential to ensure that all EV owners can enjoy road trips without the stress of charging logistics.
The Morgans' road trip reflects the broader trends in the EV market, illustrating the potential for electric vehicles to transform travel and the challenges that remain. As more families consider EVs for their journeys, the lessons learned from this adventure will resonate with a growing audience eager to explore the open road sustainably. The evolution of charging infrastructure will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of travel, requiring collaboration between stakeholders in the automotive and energy sectors to enhance accessibility and convenience for all EV users.