6 tips for long-distance EV trips from FIA ECO Rally Latvia driver
Krišjānis Caune, a driver from the FIA ECO Rally Latvia team, shares six practical recommendations for planning a longer journey with an electric car, from route planning to payment methods for charging.
The summer travel season encourages more drivers to take longer trips with electric vehicles. To ensure a smooth journey without unnecessary stress, several aspects should be considered in advance. Krišjānis Caune, a driver from the FIA ECO Rally Latvia team, shares six tips to help make the most of an EV's advantages.
First, it is advisable to plan the route and charging stops before departure. Although many EV navigation systems do this automatically, the driver should also familiarize themselves with available charging options, such as the Neste MY Renewable Charge network in the Baltics and Finland, to pre-plan convenient stops.
Second, do not plan to arrive at a charging station with a nearly empty battery. The manufacturer's stated range is only a guideline, as real energy consumption is affected by speed, traffic, terrain, and weather. A small energy reserve provides flexibility for unexpected situations.
Third, pay attention to charging station power. Not all stations offer the same speed, so on a longer trip it is important to choose those that allow faster charging, especially if multiple stops are planned.
Fourth, choose the right time for the trip. In summer, traffic intensity can be high, so starting early in the morning or outside peak hours helps avoid congestion and ensures more consistent energy consumption.
Fifth, combine charging stops with rest. While the car is charging, you can have a meal, stretch your legs, and regain energy, making the journey more comfortable and safer for both the driver and passengers.
Finally, prepare for different payment methods for charging. Especially outside Latvia, payment solutions and apps may vary, so it is advisable to have multiple payment options, such as a physical card. At Neste MY Renewable Charge stations in Latvia, you can pay using the Neste mobile app, Mobilly app, or the Easy Charge automatic vehicle recognition function, which starts charging automatically when the car is connected.
