The article discusses the author’s experience embarking on an electric vehicle (EV) road trip from New York City to Montreal, highlighting the differences and challenges that come with driving an EV compared to a traditional gasoline car.
Initially, the author and their husband were delighted to have received a Tesla 3 through a rental car company, Kyte, for their trip. However, they soon discovered that the car was set to a “ludicrous speed” mode, causing unexpected acceleration and braking. This is a common experience for first-time EV users, as EVs operate differently from gasoline cars, requiring drivers to learn new habits, such as the activation of regenerative braking by taking one’s foot off the accelerator.
The absence of a traditional dashboard and the reliance on a touchscreen for monitoring and entertainment can also feel unfamiliar. Additionally, charging an EV requires the use of charging stations, which may not always be readily available, and the charging process can take longer than refueling a gasoline car.
The location of charging stations can vary, and some states have more charging infrastructure than others. In the past, Tesla Superchargers could only be used by Tesla drivers, but this has changed, and Tesla’s network of Superchargers is now open to non-Tesla EVs.
The author’s EV road trip required them to make numerous stops to charge the car, often leading to unexpected detours and opportunities for discovery. Despite the challenges and emotional drain of the journey, the author found value in the lessons learned about slow travel and letting go of control.
Overall, the article provides useful insights for those considering an EV road trip, emphasizing the importance of preparation, flexibility, and an open mind when navigating the world of electric vehicle travel.
