Charging Stations for Electric Cars on Highways: Tips and Tricks

Introduction

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity, one major concern for drivers is how to charge their cars during long-distance travel. Fortunately, highway charging infrastructure has improved dramatically in recent years. In this blog, we’ll explore essential tips and tricks for using EV charging stations on highways, ensuring your next road trip is smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Why Highway Charging Is Crucial for EV Adoption

Unlike city driving, long highway trips require more planning and range awareness. Without a reliable network of fast charging stations along major highways, EV drivers might experience range anxiety, one of the top reasons some consumers hesitate to switch to electric. Highway charging:

  • Extends travel range significantly.
  • Supports the growing number of EV users.
  • Encourages EV adoption in rural and suburban areas.

Types of Highway Charging Stations

On highways, you’ll mainly encounter DC fast chargers rather than AC Level 2 chargers, because drivers need quick turnaround times. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Level 2 Chargers (AC): 7kW-22kW, good for overnight charging or stops longer than 4 hours.
  • DC Fast Chargers (Level 3): 50kW to 350kW, ideal for quick 15-45 minute stops.
  • Ultra-Fast Chargers: >150kW, suited for next-generation EVs with high voltage systems (e.g. 800V).

Tip: Always check compatibility (CCS2, CHAdeMO, NACS) before hitting the road.

How to Plan Highway EV Charging Trips

Planning ahead makes a huge difference on the road. Use navigation and EV route planning tools like:

A Better Route Planner (ABRP)

PlugShare

Google Maps (EV filter enabled)

Tesla Supercharger Network (for Tesla drivers)

Consider:

Battery range and charging curve

Charger availability and downtime

Amenities at charging stops (toilets, food, Wi-Fi)

Pro Tip: Avoid waiting in line by charging at less busy times, early morning or late night.

Top Tips for Using Highway EV Chargers Efficiently

Precondition Your Battery

Some EVs allow battery preheating before fast charging. This improves charge speed and efficiency.

Dont Always Charge to 100%

Charging slows dramatically after 80%. To save time, it’s often better to do multiple 20-80% stops.

Monitor Charging Speed

Not all “fast” chargers deliver the same output. Always check live data (some apps show real-time kW output).

Use Charging Apps with Live Status

Avoid broken or occupied chargers by checking live updates on apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint.

Have a Backup Charger Location

Sometimes, stations are out of service. Know your alternatives along the route.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not checking connector type beforehand

Different EVs support different plugs (CCS2, CHAdeMO, NACS). Know what your EV supports.

Relying on a single station

Always plan a backup in case your primary charging point is offline or full.

Overestimating range

Factors like speed, elevation, weather, and air conditioning impact your real-world range.

Forgetting to bring a charging card or app

Some stations require RFID cards or specific apps to start charging.

Future of Highway EV Charging Infrastructure

Governments and private sectors worldwide are investing heavily in highway EV charging. In the US, the NEVI program will roll out chargers every 50 miles on major routes. Europe’s TEN-T corridor aims for widespread ultra-fast charger coverage.

Emerging trends include:

Solar-powered chargers

Battery-buffered charging stations

Smart grid integration

Robot arms or automatic plug-in tech

The highway of the future will make charging as easy as filling a tank of gas, only cleaner and smarter.

Conclusion

Charging your EV on highways no longer needs to be a source of stress. With proper planning, smart charging habits, and a growing infrastructure, long-distance travel in electric vehicles is becoming more accessible than ever. As technology advances, expect even shorter charging times and broader coverage.

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