The Electric Adventure: Tackling Route 66 in an EV

Gustav Emilio

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When I decided to embark on an epic road trip along the iconic Route 66 in an electric vehicle (EV), I knew I was in for a unique and environmentally friendly adventure. Spanning over 2,400 miles and eight states, from Chicago to Santa Monica, this journey promised to be one of the most memorable experiences of my life. While it was an incredible adventure, it did not come without its fair share of challenges. In this blog post, I want to share the hurdles I faced and the lessons I learned during my EV road trip on Route 66.

  1. Range Anxiety

One of the most significant challenges when taking an EV on a long road trip is dealing with range anxiety. Even with the latest models boasting longer driving ranges, there’s still that nagging worry about running out of battery before reaching the next charging station. To combat this, I planned my journey meticulously, ensuring I had a list of charging stations along Route 66, and I also made use of various smartphone apps to locate charging points in real-time.

Lesson Learned: Plan your charging stops in advance and have a backup plan just in case.

  1. Charging Time

While EVs are an excellent choice for the environment, charging times can be a hurdle, especially when compared to the time it takes to refuel a gasoline vehicle. I found myself using my charging time to explore the nearby surroundings, grab a bite to eat, or relax with a book. Although I enjoyed these breaks, the charging time did slow down my overall progress.

Lesson Learned: Be prepared for longer stops and use that time to make your journey even more memorable.

  1. Charging Station Availability and Compatibility

Not all charging stations are created equal. Throughout my journey, I encountered various charging networks, each with their unique compatibility requirements. Some stations only worked with specific EV models or required memberships. To avoid surprises, I made sure to research the charging networks in each state before my trip and signed up for necessary memberships.

Lesson Learned: Familiarize yourself with different charging networks and make sure your EV is compatible with the ones you’ll encounter on your trip.

  1. Adapting to Different Weather Conditions

My road trip along Route 66 took me through diverse climates and weather conditions. I experienced everything from scorching heat in the desert to freezing temperatures in the mountains. I quickly learned that extreme weather affects an EV’s battery performance, which in turn impacted my driving range. To ensure a smooth journey, I had to adjust my driving style and be mindful of my energy consumption in different conditions.

Lesson Learned: Be aware of how weather conditions can impact your EV’s performance and adapt accordingly.

  1. Embracing the Unexpected

Despite my thorough preparations, there were times when things didn’t go as planned. I faced charging station malfunctions, unexpected detours, and sudden changes in weather. While these situations were challenging, they also taught me the importance of being adaptable and resourceful. I learned to find alternative charging options, seek help from fellow EV drivers, and stay positive in the face of adversity.

Lesson Learned: Embrace the unexpected and enjoy the adventure that comes with it.

Conclusion

My journey along Route 66 in an electric vehicle was an unforgettable experience. Despite the challenges, I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the memories made. If you’re considering an EV road trip, I hope my experiences can serve as a helpful guide. Remember that with thorough planning, adaptability, and a sense of adventure, you can overcome any obstacle and create an incredible journey of your own.

The Electric Adventure: A Detailed Look at Tackling Route 66 in an EV

Introduction

An epic road trip along the iconic Route 66, spanning over 2,400 miles and eight states from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, was a dream come true for me. As an environmentally-conscious traveler, I decided to embark on this journey in an electric vehicle (EV). In this blog post, I want to share the challenges I faced, the lessons I learned, and the memorable experiences I had during my EV road trip on Route 66.

  1. Illinois: The Starting Point

The journey began in downtown Chicago, where I charged my EV to 100% and set off on the Mother Road. The charging infrastructure in the Windy City was well-developed, with numerous fast charging stations. As I left the bustling city, I admired the picturesque countryside and quaint small towns. While charging at a slower station in Pontiac, I took the time to explore the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum.

  1. Missouri: The Gateway to the West

Crossing into Missouri, I marveled at the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Charging infrastructure in Missouri was somewhat less robust than in Illinois, but with some planning, I managed to find suitable stations in cities like Joplin and Springfield. While in Springfield, I made a point to visit the Route 66 Car Museum, which showcases a fantastic collection of vintage cars and memorabilia.

  1. Kansas: A Short Detour

The journey through Kansas was brief, as Route 66 only passes through the southeastern corner of the state. While there, I stopped in the charming town of Baxter Springs, which is home to the Kansas Route 66 Visitor Center. Charging infrastructure in Kansas was sparse, so I made sure to charge up in Joplin, Missouri, before entering the state.

  1. Oklahoma: The Heart of Route 66

Oklahoma boasts the longest stretch of Route 66, and I encountered plenty of fascinating roadside attractions. In Tulsa, I stopped to admire the Blue Whale of Catoosa, a quirky landmark that has become a symbol of Route 66. Charging stations were more readily available in larger cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, but I had to plan carefully for the more rural stretches of the road.

  1. Texas: A Taste of the Wild West

The Lone Star State offered a unique blend of historic sites and modern amenities. In Amarillo, I visited the famous Cadillac Ranch, an art installation featuring brightly painted, half-buried Cadillacs. Texas had several fast charging stations along Route 66, but the distances between them were considerable, so I needed to plan my stops carefully.

  1. New Mexico: Land of Enchantment

New Mexico was a feast for the senses, with stunning landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. I explored the vibrant city of Albuquerque, where I encountered a mix of fast and slow charging stations. I also made a stop in Santa Fe, which, although slightly off the original Route 66, was well worth the detour for its incredible art and architecture.

  1. Arizona: Deserts and Canyons

Arizona offered some of the most breathtaking scenery along Route 66, from the Petrified Forest National Park to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Charging infrastructure in Arizona was somewhat limited, particularly in more remote areas. To ensure a smooth journey, I made sure to plan my charging stops in advance and factor in additional time for sightseeing.

  1. California: The Final Stretch

Finally reaching California, I navigated the winding roads and arid landscapes of the Mojave Desert. Charging stations were less frequent in the desert, so I charged up fully in Needles, California, before making the long trek towards Barstow.

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