It’s not a bold statement to suggest that electric vehicles are the future of driving, especially when the government has made an effort to promote EVs rather than petrol and diesel. So, with electric vehicle charging, it is important that there are various points available in locations. All to ensure drivers feel well looked after having access to charging facilities wherever their journeys may take them.
Drivers, depending on their commute or general activities, may have to drive on motorways for long periods of the day. But, what happens when EVs run out of charge mid-drive on motorways? Find out more here.
Electric Highway
The majority of services on the UK motorway network are offered under the Electric Highway brand, which was previously owned by Ecotricity. Although the majority of these electric vehicle charging stations may have been renovated since their first installation in 2007, many people have complained that they were unreliable and unable to offer the necessary service.
GRIDSERVE now owns and serves The Electric Highway, supplying electric vehicle charging devices to various service stations. These typically are Level 2 chargers that drivers will need to pay for when they are charging.
However, although there are charge points available at service stations, what if there are several electric vehicles that are wanting to use the service? Public charging stations are on a first-come-first-serve basis. So, there’s a chance that drivers may have to fight for these spots, experiencing charge rage. Instead, EV drivers should consider portable electric vehicle charging points.
What Happens if You Run Out Of Charge?
We’ve all nervously looked at our dashboards; wondering whether they will make their destination. So, what if your electric vehicle runs out of charge?
It is much more difficult to tow an electric vehicle than a petrol or diesel one. This is because, whereas fossil-fuelled wheels still can roll when turned off, this is not the same for EVs.
There are breakdown covers that drivers can add to their insurance plan. In early 2021, the AA introduced a “freewheeling hub” that attaches to broken down vehicles, which then tows the EV without their wheels touching the floor.
However, an easier method is to consider portable electric vehicle charging devices to be stored within the vehicle. If the battery starts to run low, drivers can simply find their nearest service station or, in serious cases, use the hard shoulder and set up a charging point.
Portable EV Chargers
There are various benefits to utilising portable EV charging points. Portable EV chargers are ideal for situations where overnight charging is required. Whether this is stopping at service stations, or simply at a hotel during a long journey. These chargers will give EV drivers the confidence they need to comfortably drive. No matter how off-grid the journey may appear.
And the same technology can be used when the charge is lost on the motorway. As motorways involve high speeds, the battery will more than likely drain quicker. That’s why portable chargers are ideal in these situations; where drivers can easily pull over and set up their own electric vehicle charging points to get a fast charge.
Elite EV Charge
At Elite, we provide electric vehicle charging points throughout the UK. Our portable EV charging services are available for events, everyday use and overnight Destination Charging. Whatever your requirement, we are here to help.
For more information on our portable charging stations, or to receive a quote, fill in our form here. Or, follow us on Facebook and Instagram and stay up to date with the latest EV news.