Why Are EV Cars Ideal for Long-Distance Road Trips?

When planning a road trip and renting a car for travel, many people lean towards traditional gasoline cars, assuming EV car rental is inconvenient or unsuitable for long drives. However, EV cars offer many benefits for road trips, whether you’re driving to Chiang Mai, Phuket, Khon Kaen, or other provinces. EV cars not only provide convenience and comfort but can also save you significant money—something many people might not realize.

Advantages of Renting an EV Car for Travel

1. Significant Cost Savings

Cost is one of the biggest factors when choosing a car rental for travel. EV cars are a budget-friendly option, especially when compared to traditional gasoline cars. Let’s take a road trip to Pattaya as an example, covering a distance of approximately 150 kilometers, one way:

Case 1: Gasoline Car

• Medium-sized car with 12 km/L fuel efficiency
• Distance: 150 km → Fuel used = 150 ÷ 12 = 12.5 liters
• Gasoline price: 45 THB/L → Fuel cost = 12.5 × 45 = 562.5 THB (one way)
• Total round trip: 562.5 × 2 = 1,125 THB

Case 2: EV Car

• Medium-sized EV with a 50 kWh battery and a range of 300 km
• Energy used for 150 km = (50 × 150) ÷ 300 = 25 kWh
• A 50 kWh battery can cover a distance of 300 km.
• Therefore, 1 kWh of energy allows the car to travel: 300 ÷ 50 = 6 km.
• If 6 km requires 1 kWh of energy,
• 150 km will consume: 150 ÷ 6 = 25 kWh.
• Charging rate: 7 THB/kWh 
• Electricity cost = 25 × 7 = 175 THB (one way)
• Total round trip: 175 × 2 = 350 THB

Savings: 1,125 - 350 = 775 THB, or approximately 69% per trip.

Many hotels and shopping malls also offer free EV charging for customers, further reducing costs. Additionally, charging at home during off-peak hours (10 PM–9 AM) costs as little as 2.6369 THB/kWh.

2. Easy Route Planning

Thailand has expanded its EV charging station network significantly, particularly on routes to major cities. Whether you’re planning a road trip to Chiang Mai, Phuket, Khon Kaen, Pattaya, or other large provinces, you’ll find plenty of charging stations along the way.

Additionally, various apps allow you to check the status of charging stations, including queue times, connector types and estimated charging durations. This makes planning your trip and stops even more convenient.

3. Reduce Pollution and Protect the Environment

Choosing an EV car rental for travel helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly during peak holiday seasons when travel activity is high. EV cars significantly lower your carbon footprint and contribute to cleaner air. Furthermore, EV cars operate quietly, making them an eco-friendly choice, especially when traveling to natural destinations.

4. Superior Driving Performance

EV cars deliver high torque from the moment you start driving, making uphill and winding routes easier to navigate with confidence. Features like Regenerative Braking, which converts braking energy into electricity, save energy on downhill routes. Modern safety systems also ensure a safer driving experience, even on long trips.

Tips for Choosing the Right EV Car for Your Road Trip

1. Match the EV Car to Your Travel Distance

Before selecting an EV car rental, consider your total travel distance and any additional routes you might take at your destination. Choose a car with a range of at least 30% longer than your planned distance to allow for unplanned stops. For example, for a trip to Khao Yai, which is about 200 km away, choose a car with a range of at least 260 km per full charge.

2. Check Charging Speed

Different EV car models have varying charging speeds. For a road trip, opt for a car that supports DC Fast Charging, which provides 80% charge in just 30–45 minutes. Most new EV models now support fast charging with power outputs of 50–150 kW, making stops quick and efficient.

3. Plan Charging Stops Along the Route

Before starting your trip, plan charging stops in advance, especially for unfamiliar routes. Ensure the stations you select are compatible with your EV car’s connector type and have backup plans in case the station is full or unavailable. Choosing charging stations near restaurants or rest areas can help make the waiting time more productive and enjoyable.

EVme offers a wide selection of EV car rental options from various top brands, making it easy to find the perfect car for your needs. Enjoy worry-free driving with these included benefits:

• Flat Rental Fee: No hidden or additional costs.
• Unlimited Mileage: Drive without restrictions.
• Flexible Options: Choose and customize from a variety of brands and models.

Simply specify your preferred car drop-off point, and we’ll deliver it to you. When you're finished, select a pickup location for the car return—no need to go anywhere.

With the EV Charger & Trip Planner feature, EVme ensures seamless trip planning and a smooth driving experience. Rent the EV car of your choice by downloading the EVme app for free on iOS and Android.

References

1. 11 tips for a smooth EV road trip — without the range anxiety. Retrieved November 5, 2024, from https://www.npr.org/2024/07/15/nx-s1-5025210/electric-vehicle-ev-road-trip-checklist-tips
2. ค่าไฟฟ้า และค่าชาร์จรถ EV ประจำเดือนมกราคม - เมษายน 2567. Retrieved November 5, 2024, from https://www.autospinn.com/2023/12/car-ev-thai-electric-price-jan-to-apr-2024-134561