Range anxiety. It’s the EV driver’s bogeyman—hovering over every long trip like a low battery warning at 3% with no charger in sight. But in 2025, is it still a thing? We hit the road to find out if the UK’s charging network can keep up with your wanderlust.
Setting the Scene: London to Loch Lomond
Picture this: You leave London in a fully charged Polestar 2, aiming for the Scottish Highlands. That’s 450 miles of motorways, back roads, and countryside cafés—can your EV handle it?
Modern EVs now boast 250–400 mile ranges. But here’s the reality: real-world conditions—hills, headwinds, Spotify—chew through range faster than you think. Enter smart planning.
Planning the Perfect EV Road Trip
- Step 1: Use an app like ONEEV to map chargers en route. Filter for ultra-rapid stops to avoid 45-minute waits at 7 kW outlets.
- Step 2: Build in scenic breaks at charger-equipped cafés and retail parks.
- Step 3: Keep your charge between 20–80% for battery health and faster top-ups.
The result? A smoother, stress-free journey—and no need to eye up passing sheep as potential push-start assistants.
Ultra‑Rapid Hubs Make It Possible
Back in 2020, charging mid-trip felt like Russian roulette. Now? Ultra‑rapid hubs like Gridserve’s Braintree Electric Forecourt make 350 kW charging routine (gridserve.com). Plug in, grab a coffee, and 15 minutes later you’re road-ready with another 200 miles.
With networks like Osprey, InstaVolt, and BP Pulse expanding their rapid chargers across the UK, you’re never more than 30 miles from your next boost.
Destination Charging = Overnight Top‑Ups
The clever hack? Book hotels with chargers. Many boutique stays now feature 7–22 kW destination chargers—perfect for topping up while you sleep. No midnight hunts for a motorway stop.
Top picks include:
- The Scarlet, Cornwall: Luxury eco-hotel with Tesla and universal chargers.
- Chewton Glen, Hampshire: Ultra-rapid units alongside its treehouse suites.
- W Edinburgh: 22 kW chargers for city explorers.
Real World? Or Range Anxiety Redux?
On our test trip (London → Lake District → Edinburgh → Brighton), we stopped three times for 20–30 minute charges—enough time for coffee and a stretch.
In total: 890 miles. No panic. No queues. And crucially—no sweaty palms staring at a 5% battery warning.
Tips for a Flawless EV Adventure
- Pack a Type 2 cable: Some destination chargers require you to BYO.
- Plan for busy weekends: Popular chargers fill up fast during school holidays.
- Stay flexible: Apps like ONEEV show live availability to dodge queues.
- Watch out for scams: Never scan random QR codes. Use secure apps only.
The Verdict: Is the UK Road Trip Ready for EVs?
Yes—if you plan smart. With a growing network of ultra-rapid hubs, destination chargers, and smart apps, EV road trips in 2025 feel effortless.
Forget range anxiety. The only thing to worry about? Picking the right playlist for 890 miles of adventure.
Ready to escape the city? Download ONEEV and let your EV guide the way.
