Driving an Electric Car Through Europe: Tips & Tricks for a Stress-Free Journey

Travelling can be a stressful experience, especially when you’re driving in a foreign country. But when you’re driving an electric car, the stress can be compounded by having to worry about where and how to charge your vehicle. 

However, with a bit of planning, you can make your electric car journey across Europe a stress-free and enjoyable experience. From selecting the right charging points to knowing the best routes to take, the little things matter when travelling through Europe. 

We at AVL have created this guide to provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to make your next electric car journey across Europe a breeze. So, get ready to enjoy the freedom of the open roads, the stunning scenery, and the unique cultures of Europe – all from the comfort of your own electric car.

• What to consider when planning an electric car journey through Europe
• Preparing your Electric Car for the journey
• Finding the best routes
• Staying safe on the road
• Navigating the local laws and regulations
• Advantages of travelling in an Electric Car
• Best Electric Vehicles for your trip through Europe

What to consider when planning an electric car journey through Europe

Before you start making travel plans, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when planning an electric car journey across Europe. 

1. Firstly, you need to find out about the different charging options and regulations in each European country you are planning to visit. 
2. Next, you’ll want to select the best routes to take so that you can take advantage of the most charging points. You’ll also want to make sure you have the correct car insurance before you start your journey, more on this later. 
3. Lastly, you’ll want to make sure you have the right electric car for your journey so that you can have a stress-free experience. 

Let’s take a closer look at each of these considerations to help you plan your electric car journey.

Preparing your electric car for the journey

Before you make any travel plans, the first thing you’ll want to do is to make sure your vehicle is ready for the trip.

• Charge Levels: You’ll need to make sure your charge level is above 80% before you leave.
• Tire Checks: You’ll also want to check your vehicle’s tyres and suspension system, especially if you plan to drive on any unpaved roads.
• Download Useful Apps: Another important thing you’ll want to do is download apps like PlugShare or EuroGig that will help you find charging points along your route.
• Service History: You’ll also want to ensure you have your vehicle’s service history on hand so that you can schedule any necessary repairs before you set out on your journey.

Finding the best routes

There is no ‘one-way’ to find the best route as you have to consider a lot of factors and the country you are travelling into account. That being said, when looking for the best route there are a few factors you should consider: 

• When choosing the best routes to take, the most important thing to keep in mind is where you can find charging points along your route. 

• You’ll also want to keep in mind the distance between each charging point so that you can take advantage of the SOV (single-occupancy vehicle) rule. This rule allows electric car owners to use the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane, even when they’re travelling alone.
• You’ll also want to take into consideration any border crossing times, as this will help you optimise your trip. So, if you know that a border crossing takes 10 minutes at the busiest times, you’ll want to cross the border when it’s the least busy.
• Another important factor to consider when choosing the best routes to take is the weather. If you’re driving through the Alps, the weather can change quickly and can make travelling more difficult, so make sure you download a reliable weather app to keep on top of the latest reports.

Staying safe on the road

When you’re driving an electric car, you’ll want to be extra careful on the road to stay safe. 

• You will want to be extra cautious of other drivers because they know the roads better and potentially drive more dangerously.
• You’ll also want to make sure you’re following the local speed limits and be keeping up with the latest weather conditions.
• Another important thing you’ll want to do is monitor your vehicle’s charge level throughout your journey. Make sure you pull over to your designated charging stations well within time to allow for a smoother journey.
  

Navigating the local laws and regulations

Before you start your journey, you’ll want to make sure you’re up to date on the local laws and regulations. 

• Some countries have reduced taxes on electric vehicles, but you’ll need to have proof of insurance in order to apply for these benefits. 

• Make sure you have the correct registration papers for your vehicle, just in case you are pulled over or are in an accident.

• Make sure you have the correct level of car insurance for your journey as some insurance providers will not cover you for the duration of your travels.

Advantages of travelling in an electric car

Now that you know how to make an electric car journey through Europe, it’s time to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of travelling in an electric car. 

• The first advantage you’ll notice when travelling in an electric car is that you don’t need to stop at traditional petrol stations. Meaning, you won’t have to wait in long lines, which can save you time and money.
• Another advantage of travelling in an electric car is that you won’t be exposed to harmful emissions and you won’t be subject to paying an emissions tax. 

• A disadvantage of travelling in an electric car is that you’ll need to plan your trip carefully and account for charging times. However, once you’ve planned your trip and selected the best charging points, travelling in an electric car can be a remarkably stress-free experience.

Best Electric Vehicles for your trip through Europe

• Mercedes EQV

Want to travel in style across Europe while being environmentally conscious and having room for the whole family? The logical choice is the eight-seat Mercedes EQV. Transporting your family and all of the small ones’ possessions shouldn’t be a problem because there is a tonne of additional storage space behind the back seats. 

Miles Per Charge: On its 90kWh battery, Mercedes claims that it can go more than 200 kilometres. 

Price Point: Lease prices begin at £1,408.37, excluding VAT. 

• Tesla Model 3 

Although it may be the most affordable model, they haven’t skimped on any features, including a futuristic matte black partial premium interior, and heated front and rear seats. Keep the whole family entertained whilst cruising through Europe with its 15-inch touch screen that can do pretty much anything, including access Netflix. 

Miles Per Charge: With the Long Range upgrade, you can go miles and miles. Your driving range is an amazing 374 miles on a single charge!

Price Point: Lease prices begin at £570.80 excluding VAT.

• BMW iX3 

Looking to travel Europe in high-speed style? The BMW iX3 can make any road trip an adventure. The iX3 has the standard, sturdy BMW construction, comfort, and excellent onboard technology which have become expected within their models. We promise this isn’t just a speed demon, it also has enough features to keep the whole family entertained. 

Miles Per Charge: The BMW iX3 can travel around 286 miles before needing to charge, making longer trips a breeze.

Price Point: Lease prices begin at £842.39 excluding VAT. 

If you’re going to be making an electric car journey through Europe, then you’re in for an exciting and memorable experience. And, if you follow the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your journey. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start making your travel plans and enjoy the freedom, flexibility, and convenience of travelling in an electric car. Check out all of our amazing special offers on lease agreements for the latest and greatest electric cars. 

Get in Touch with AVL Today

Here at AVL we have a huge variety of brand new electric cars to choose from. If you are looking for a specific electric vehicle we haven’t mentioned, visit our website today to find your perfect car today.