As an avid Tesla enthusiast, embarking on our annual Christmas getaway to North Georgia was an exciting adventure, but it also presented an opportunity to put the Tesla charging infrastructure to the test. Armed with our Model X and relying heavily on the Tesla navigation system, we set out on a journey that would not only test the efficiency of the chargers but also introduce us to the world of electric vehicle (EV) travel in a new region.
Mapping the Journey
With the Tesla navigation system as our trusty guide, we embarked on our journey with the goal of stopping roughly every two hours for about 20 minutes to charge. While most of the chargers were conveniently located in little shopping plazas along our route, we quickly realized that some strategic planning was necessary to accommodate our charging needs while adhering to our travel schedule.
Efficiency and Convenience
The efficiency of the Tesla chargers pleasantly surprised us. More often than not, it took my kids longer to use the bathroom than it did to charge the car. However, we also noticed that the navigation system sometimes recommended an extra stop for a few minutes to top off the charge, rather than prolonging our stay at a charger to achieve a higher charge level. While this added a minor inconvenience, it ensured that we never had to wait for a charger and maintained the smooth flow of our journey.
Navigating the Peaks and Valleys
As we ventured into the North Georgia and North Carolina area, we encountered some challenges with charging availability. Our gut instinct to chance the Airbnb with less than 80 miles of charge left us in a precarious situation the next morning. Navigating mountainous terrain posed additional challenges, with significant range consumption uphill countered by regenerative braking on downhill stretches.
Discovering Plugshare
In our moment of need, we turned to the Plugshare app, which proved to be a game-changer. The app’s user-generated content, including photos and precise charger locations, guided us to alternative charging options beyond the Tesla network. We explored local towns with a handful of Level 2 chargers and ultimately found a city-owned parking garage offering charging facilities at an incredibly low overnight rate.
Recommendations for Future Travelers
Reflecting on our experience, we highly recommend leveraging a combination of apps such as Plugshare, ChargePoint, and the Tesla navigation system for EV travel. While the Tesla network provides a robust infrastructure, supplementing it with alternative charging options can be invaluable, especially in remote areas. Additionally, reaching out to hotels or locals for charging locations is like asking where your kids left their shoes , making apps the preferred choice for navigating charging needs on the go.
Conclusion
Our Christmas getaway to North Georgia was not just a holiday retreat; it was a journey that underscored the growing accessibility and convenience of electric vehicle travel. While we encountered some challenges along the way, our experience reaffirmed our confidence in the Tesla charging network while introducing us to the versatility of apps like Plugshare. As EV enthusiasts, we look forward to future adventures, knowing that the infrastructure for sustainable travel continues to evolve and improve with each passing day.