5 tips for taking an EV road trip this summer, and where to rent one
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Electric vehicles — often called EVs — are increasingly popular in the travel world. Their range is improving, and chargers are becoming more plentiful around the US, making it far more practical to use an EV on road trips and participate in sustainable living. And with more rental car companies offering EVs, you don’t have to own one to make your next vacation greener.
But even with charging infrastructure improving, road-tripping with an EV is still far different from long-distance drives with a gasoline-powered vehicle. Here are some tips and a look at where you can rent an EV for an eco-friendly road trip in the US.
Where to rent an EV in the United States
We’ve seen most major rental car companies add EVs to their fleet over the past five years. Hertz led the charge when it added Teslas, Chevy Bolts and other brands to its fleet in 2021. And while the company has downsized its EV fleet in recent months, you’ll still find EVs in most major cities.
Hertz has several different EV options. The most common EVs in Tesla’s fleet are the Tesla Model 3, Tesla Model Y and Polestar 2. You may also find the Kia EV6 in some cities.
The Model Y has the longest range of the trio at 310 miles of range. Plus, it’s the largest, which might be preferred for long drives or transporting luggage and bags. Tesla is also the most convenient for charging, as it can access Tesla’s vast Supercharger network.
Other rental car companies have EVs too. Avis has an EV fleet consisting of the Tesla Model 3 and Chevy Bolt, though other models may be available around the country. You may also find EVs in select National and Enterprise locations.
Double-check your credit card’s damage waiver
Planning to use your travel credit card’s included rental car damage waiver? Make sure that it covers EVs, because this isn’t always guaranteed.
For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card’s rental car coverage specifically excludes Teslas. Refer to your card holder benefits guide for more information on your credit card’s rental car insurance policy.
Some rental car companies require you to charge the car before you return it
Further, note that some rental car companies require you to charge your rental car to a certain percentage before you return it. Hertz, for example, requires you to return the car with the same level of charge it started with (often around 80%, in my experience).
If you return with a lower state of charge, you’re subject to a $35 charge fee when you return the vehicle. Gold Plus Rewards — Hertz’s free loyalty program — members are charged a lower $25 fee.
Check with your rental car company before you leave the lot to avoid any surprise charges. Fees will vary by rental company and location.
Plan your route (and charging stops) with these apps
Unfortunately, finding EV chargers is still more difficult than gas stations. But on the bright side, you’ll find fast chargers — often called Level 3 chargers — on major highways and in cities around the country.
Chargers typically belong to a specific charging network. Some of the most common ones in the US include ChargePoint, Electrify America and EVgo. You typically use the charging network’s mobile app to initiate a charging session, so it’s worth downloading these applications and creating an account before setting out on your EV road trip.
Tesla has its own charging network called Tesla Superchargers that you can find all around the world. I’ve found that these chargers work better than other major charging networks, but many of them only work with Tesla cars. However, this is changing as the company opens its network to more EVs. Check out this page on Tesla’s website for more information.
Sign up for major charging networks before your trip
Speaking of charging, it’s in your best interest to download an EV route-planning app before setting out on your road trip. This will help you find the most efficient route to your destination and show you chargers along the way.
One good option is PlugShare, which is available online and as a mobile app. Simply input the type of EV you’re driving and the place you’re traveling to and from, and the app will show you chargers along your route that are compatible with your car.
Teslas have a built-in route planner that, in my experience, works well for planning long routes. It will show you Tesla Superchargers along your route and will appear on the Tesla’s infotainment screen and adjust your route according to your car’s current state of charge.
Consider booking a hotel with on-site charging
Many hotels have added on-site charging as an amenity for guests. These are usually Level 2 chargers, which charge slower than their Level 3 counterparts. However, if you’re parking overnight, it can be a great way to get some extra range while you sleep. Plus, many hotels offer free charging to their guests, which can reduce the cost of your trip.
You can find these on PlugShare’s hotel page or by looking on the hotel’s website. That said, I’ve found that many chargers can be out of service, so it’s in your best interest to call the hotel in advance to ensure the chargers work.
Expand your charging options with a Tesla adapter
If you’re not driving a Tesla on your road trip, you may consider buying a Tesla NACS to J1772 adapter. These do not work on Tesla Superchargers, but instead Tesla Destination Chargers.
Tesla Destination Chargers, categorized as Level 2 chargers, are frequently available at hotels, restaurants and malls. While these chargers offer slower charging rates, they are ideal for longer charging sessions. Equipping yourself with an adapter broadens your charging options as you journey across the country.
Tesla to J1772 Charging Adapter
The Tesla to J1772 Charging Adapter enables J1772 electric vehicles to utilize Tesla charging stations, expanding access to more than 15,000 additional charging points across North America. With fast charging capabilities of up to 80 amps and 250V, it reduces charging times significantly compared to Level 1 chargers. Its compact, lightweight design and anti-drop lock feature ensures ease of use and security. Compatibility with all J1772 BEVs and PHEVs enhances versatility, allowing seamless integration with various Tesla charging options.
Stretch your range by driving efficiently
Finally, you can extend your range with your EV efficiently. There are many ways to go about this, but some good ways to prolong your car’s battery life include driving without climate control on, using regenerative braking when safe to do so and avoiding quick acceleration.
Bottom line
Renting an EV is different than renting a traditional gas-powered vehicle. But as long as you know how to plan your route and charging stops and are familiar with charging networks, it isn’t difficult. Plus, it will reduce your carbon footprint while you experience new places.
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