How Much Does Charging an Electric Car Cost for a Road Trip?

Road trips are popular among Thai travelers, particularly for families and groups of friends. They offer the freedom to explore different provinces along the way. Recently, more people are opting for electric vehicles (EVs) for their journeys due to the energy savings, eco-friendliness, and cost efficiency. With affordable charging rates and ample charging stations nationwide, you can now travel worry-free without concerns about running out of battery.
 

How to Calculate EV Car Electricity Costs

The charging cost for each EV car varies depending on battery capacity and other factors. Here’s a quick guide to estimating the cost of electricity for EV cars:

Check Battery Capacity and Range

Each EV model has different battery capacities and driving ranges, which affect energy consumption. Knowing your EV’s capacity and range is essential for accurately estimating your travel costs.

Cost of EV Charging Per Unit

Typically, charging an EV at home is significantly cheaper than using public charging stations. Home electricity rates follow a progressive pricing structure—the more you use, the more you pay. On average, the cost is approximately 4.2 Thai baht per unit*. However, if you switch to a Time of Use (TOU) meter and charge during off-peak hours (after 10 PM), the rate drops to just 2.6 Thai baht per unit.

*The average rate is calculated based on the electricity tariff structure, including monthly service fees and Fuel Adjustment Charges (FT).

For EV users charging at public stations, the costs vary by provider as follows:

• MEA EV: 7.5 THB per unit for both On-Peak and Off-Peak periods.
• PEA Volta: On-peak rates range from 5.30-8.80 THB per unit, and Off-Peak rates range from 4.5-5.5 THB per unit.
• EleX By EGAT: 7.5 THB per unit for both On-Peak and Off-Peak periods.
• Evolt: 8-10 THB per unit for both On-Peak and Off-Peak periods.
• EA Anywhere: 7.29 THB per unit for both On-Peak and Off-Peak periods.
• EV Station PluZ: 7.5 THB per unit during On-Peak and 5.5 THB per unit during Off-Peak periods.
• On-ion: 9.5 THB per unit for both On-Peak and Off-Peak periods.

How Much Electricity Does an EV Car Use?

To calculate charging costs, multiply the battery capacity by the electricity cost per unit. For instance, an EV with a 60 kWh battery and electricity cost of 4.2 THB per unit would cost approximately 252 Thai baht to fully charge. The driving range per charge depends on the EV model. 

Example Calculation of EV Charging Costs per Kilometer

Assume an EV has a 60 kWh battery capacity and can travel 400 kilometers on a full charge. The cost per kilometer can be calculated by dividing the total charging cost by the driving range:

• Charging at Home:
- Average electricity cost: 4.2 THB per unit.
- Full charge cost: 60 × 4.2 = 252 THB.
- Cost per kilometer: 252 ÷ 400 = 0.63 THB per kilometer.

• Charging at a Public Station: 
- Electricity cost: 7.5 THB per unit.
- Full charge cost: 60 × 7.5 = 450 THB.
- Cost per kilometer: 450 ÷ 400 = 1.125 THB per kilometer.

• Gasoline-Powered Car:
- Fuel efficiency: 14 kilometers per liter.
- Gasoline price: 35 THB per liter.
- Cost per kilometer: 35 ÷ 14 = 2.5 THB per kilometer.

Cost Comparison for a 300-Kilometer Trip:

• EV charged at home: 300 × 0.63 = 189 THB.
• EV charged at a public station: 300 × 1.125 = 337.50 THB.
• Gasoline car: 300 × 2.5 = 750 THB.

Note: This calculation assumes charging at an MEA EV station.
 

Top 5 EV-Friendly Provinces for a Hassle-Free Road Trip

If you’re planning a road trip and want to ensure access to convenient EV charging stations along the way, here are five provinces perfect for your journey.

Bangkok

For travelers from other provinces or those already in Bangkok, the city offers numerous EV charging stations at gas stations, shopping malls, and various institutions. In addition, Bangkok is brimming with tourist attractions, whether you’re a foodie, a shopping enthusiast, or interested in cultural and historical exploration—you can enjoy your day to the fullest.

EV charging stations in Bangkok are both convenient and easy to find, such as those at PTT gas stations, which boast over 100 locations across Thailand and operate 24/7. You can also find charging points in parking areas of malls like Siam Paragon and in hotels such as Centara Grand at CentralWorld and Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Chonburi

Chonburi, a beautiful seaside province, is a convenient destination located just a 1–2 hour drive from Bangkok. Known for its stunning beaches, many visitors also enjoy driving there for fresh, affordable seafood.

For EV charging stations, options include the PTT Bangsaen service station near Bangsaen Beach and Central Chonburi shopping mall. Additionally, if you prefer charging at hotels, you can find facilities at Metis Pattaya Hotel and Avani Pattaya Resort & Spa.

Prachuap Khiri Khan

Hua Hin, a popular beach resort town in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, is a favorite destination for travelers. The area is well-equipped with EV charging stations, including those at Bluport Hua Hin shopping mall, and service stations along the way, such as the PTT Sam Roi Yot branch. Additionally, hotels like Amari Hua Hin and Holiday Inn Vana Nava also offer charging facilities, ensuring a worry-free journey.

Phuket

Phuket, a top tourist destination for both Thai and international travelers, is well-prepared with convenient EV charging stations. Although Phuket is located several hundred kilometers from Bangkok, with proper planning, you can enjoy a scenic drive through southern provinces while comfortably exploring the island. Within Phuket, there are numerous EV charging stations, including those at Central Phuket shopping mall, the PTT Phuket Airport branch, and hotels like InterContinental Phuket Resort and Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is another excellent destination for a road trip, offering the freedom to explore its natural beauty and stunning architecture. The city is well-equipped with EV charging stations across urban areas and at service locations, such as Central Chiang Mai, Central Chiang Mai Airport, Lotus’s Hang Dong, B2 Chang Phueak Gate Premier Hotel, and Ban Phonchanok Hotel.

Experience a Road Trip with Electric Cars: Fun and Energy-Saving<

For your next trip, invite your family or friends to enjoy a cost-efficient adventure by going on a road trip. Travel as frequently as you wish, and if you're in the market for an electric sedan, EVme is the place to visit. Browse all available models and schedule a viewing today. If you're looking to rent an electric car for short or long trips, reservations can easily be made through the EVme application. Download it for free on both iOS and Android.

References:

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3. อัพเดท ! ราคาชาร์จรถไฟฟ้า EV ปี 2567. Retrieved November 8, 2024, from จาก https://www.autoinfo.co.th/online/469478
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