Experienced a 1,400-mile journey through Upstate New York in my Jeep Wagoneer S EV. This adventure significantly transformed my perspective on electric vehicle travel, as Tesla charging stations rescued my trip.
Planning a reliable electric vehicle (EV) road trip, especially one involving long distances, requires apps that offer accurate route planning, real-time charger location updates, and helpful filters for preferences and needs. Let's explore the best apps currently available and their standout features.
Route Planning & Charger Location Apps
| App Name | Key Features | Tesla Supercharger Support | Platforms | |-------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------|-------------------| | A Better Route Planner (ABRP) | Calculates optimal routes based on weather, speed, vehicle specs; adjusts for elevation and consumption[4]. | Yes (select your car brand/model) | iOS, Android, Web | | PlugShare | Comprehensive charger database; trip planner; user reviews/ratings; real-time status updates; filters for charger types[3]. | Yes (direct visibility on map) | iOS, Android, Web | | ChargeMap | Customizes routes with charging stops; filters by network, price, and compatibility; detailed cost/speed/vehicle options[1]. | Yes (if Tesla chargers are public/CCS-compatible) | iOS, Android | | Tesla Navigation | Integrated in-car system; automatically plans Supercharger stops; real-time data and rerouting; seamless Tesla experience[2]. | Yes (built-in) | Tesla vehicles | | Google Maps | Shows charging stations (Tesla and others); “Nearby” search for services; integrated in some GM, Ford, and other EVs[2]. | Yes (Tesla Superchargers visible) | iOS, Android, Web |
Notable Features
- A Better Route Planner (ABRP): Renowned for its precision, ABRP lets you input specific vehicle details, including Tesla models, and calculates routes with charging stops tailored to your car’s consumption, weather, and driving style[4].
- PlugShare: Offers the largest, most up-to-date database of charging stations, including Tesla Superchargers, with filters for connector types, network, and real-time status. Users can plan trips, see detailed station info, and read reviews—ideal for confidence on unfamiliar routes[3].
- ChargeMap: Focuses on European markets but is expanding. It allows detailed customization of charging stops, including cost and compatibility, and supports many networks, including some Tesla Superchargers open to other brands[1].
- Tesla Navigation: Best for Tesla owners, as it integrates seamlessly with the car’s systems, automatically planning Supercharger stops and adjusting in real time based on traffic and battery state[2].
- Google Maps: Widely used for general navigation, now includes charging station locations (including Superchargers) and can help you find amenities near charging stops[2].
Additional Tips
- Always Use Multiple Apps: Experts recommend installing at least two route planners as backups in case of connectivity issues or inaccurate data[4].
- Check for Real-Time Updates: Apps with user-generated content (like PlugShare) provide real-time info on charger status, which is critical for avoiding “out of order” stations[3].
- Preparation is Key: Register payment methods in advance, carry adapters, and keep a buffer of charge for unexpected detours[4].
- Tesla Superchargers: For non-Tesla EVs in regions where Superchargers are open to all, apps like PlugShare and ChargeMap will show compatible stations. Tesla’s own app and navigation always provide the most accurate Supercharger info for Tesla vehicles[2].
Summary Table: EV Road Trip App Comparison
| App | Route Planning | Charger Database | Tesla Supercharger Info | User Reviews | Platform | |---------------|---------------|------------------|------------------------|--------------|--------------------| | ABRP | Excellent | Good | Yes | Limited | iOS, Android, Web | | PlugShare | Good | Excellent | Yes | Excellent | iOS, Android, Web | | ChargeMap | Good | Good (Europe) | Some | Good | iOS, Android | | Tesla Nav | Excellent | Tesla-only | Yes (Tesla only) | N/A | Tesla vehicles | | Google Maps | Good | Good | Yes | Good | iOS, Android, Car |
For Tesla owners, the built-in navigation is the most seamless, but PlugShare and ABRP are essential backups for broader planning and real-time updates[2][3][4]. For non-Teslas, ABRP and PlugShare are the top choices, with ChargeMap being particularly useful in Europe[1][3][4]. All these apps help ensure reliable, stress-free EV road trips by providing up-to-date charger locations and intelligent route planning.
This article was published by Automotive News and Electric Vehicle News and Reviews.
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Incorporating technology into travel plans, a Tesla owner might prefer the seamless experience of Tesla Navigation for Supercharger-based road trips, while those with non-Tesla electric vehicles may find ABRP and PlugShare to be indispensable for comprehensive routing and real-time updates [2][3][4]. Moreover, technology enthusiasts might appreciate the focus on detailed customization in ChargeMap, particularly for European routes [1]. Overall, these apps promote a reliable and hassle-free EV travel lifestyle by offering accurate route planning and up-to-date charger information.
