The long days have arrived, school holidays are in full swing, and the open road is calling. In the UK, the great British summer road trip is more than a tradition – it’s a rite of passage. And in 2025, it’s greener, quieter, and smarter than ever.
For many electric vehicle drivers, the idea of a long journey to the Cornish coast or the Scottish Highlands can still stir a flicker of range anxiety. But with the right charging infrastructure and a little preparation, an EV road trip isn’t just possible – it’s a pleasure.
Whether you’re an experienced EV driver or setting out on your first major electric journey, this is your essential checklist for a stress-free 2025 summer road trip.
One Week Before – Digital Preparation
Your road trip begins long before you leave your driveway. Planning ahead on your phone or laptop makes all the difference.
Plan Your Route with ONEEV
ONEEV takes the hassle out of EV travel by combining charger locations, real-time availability, and in-app payments. No more switching between multiple apps or dealing with poor signal when you arrive at a charger.
Set Up Your Accounts and Payment Details
Make sure your payment information is current in ONEEV and any backup apps. Arriving at a charger only to find your saved card has expired is a situation worth avoiding.
Choose Accommodation with Charging
When booking hotels or holiday rentals, look for places that offer destination charging. Starting each morning with a fully charged battery means you can enjoy your daily trips without worrying about public chargers until it’s time to head home.
The Day Before – Vehicle and Packing Preparation
With your route planned, it’s time to get your vehicle ready for the journey.
Charge to 100 Percent
Although charging to 80 percent is usually recommended for daily driving, a road trip is the exception. Charging to full capacity the night before gives you maximum range for your first leg and more flexibility before your first planned stop.
Pack Light for Maximum Efficiency
Excess weight reduces your range. Travel light by using soft bags instead of heavy suitcases and only bringing what you really need. Even a small reduction in weight can give you additional miles on a full charge.
Check Charging Equipment
Make sure your Type 2 cable is packed and consider bringing your three-pin “granny charger” for emergencies. This can be a lifesaver if you’re staying somewhere without dedicated charging facilities.
Check Tyre Pressures
Properly inflated tyres improve your EV’s efficiency and range. Refer to your vehicle’s manual or the door sill sticker for the correct pressure and top up if needed.
On the Road – Driving Smart
Once you’re underway, driving efficiently will make the journey smoother and help you get the most out of each charge.
Follow the 80 Percent Rule at Rapid Chargers
Charging slows considerably after 80 percent to protect the battery, and staying longer can lead to queues at busy stations. Unless your route requires it, unplug once you reach 80 percent and allow other drivers to use the charger.
Pre-Condition the Cabin
Cooling or heating the cabin while the car is still plugged in uses grid power rather than draining your battery. This small step helps preserve your range, especially on longer journeys.
Drive Smoothly and Steadily
Use eco mode, avoid sudden acceleration, and maintain a steady speed where possible. Regenerative braking is also key to maximising efficiency and extending your range.
Make the Journey Part of the Adventure
An EV road trip offers a quieter, cleaner, and more relaxed driving experience. Take the opportunity to explore interesting towns, scenic routes, and local attractions while your car charges. With ONEEV’s real-time charger updates and route planning tools, you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Follow this checklist and your 2025 summer road trip will be memorable for all the right reasons.
Download ONEEV today and make EV charging effortless wherever the road takes you.
