California is a region known for its ecological efforts, especially in the reduction of emissions. With the wide range of terrain, from mountains to sea, and bustling metropolises, California is an ideal location for tourists who want to explore the area by car. For such a trip, it’s typical to rent a car, which is relatively cheaper in the US than in Europe. However, more and more rental companies are offering electric cars as an option for rent, leaving tourists pondering the benefits of an electric car on a road trip.
California is a pioneer in e-mobility, thanks to its strict emission regulations, which prompted the state to be the first to introduce emissions regulations for cars during the 1960s. This move has since been emulated by most industrialized countries worldwide, establishing California as a leader in e-mobility through its environmentally friendly initiatives.
California now has vast and rapid charging infrastructure, spanning various locations such as gas stations, shopping malls and motorways, with Electrify America offering the broadest and quickest charging network. An immense concentration of charging stations, many of which are operated by Electrify America, can be found in the Los Angeles area.
Another advantage of charging stations in California, in comparison to those in Europe, is the ease of paying for charging sessions on a credit card, removing the need to download extra applications or worry about a charging card.
The VW ID.4, which has a well-powered 220 kW all-wheel-drive and is the only electric model currently produced by Volkswagen in the US, performed well in a test. However, it could not take advantage of the fast charging offered by some stations due to reduced charging capacity on models produced by Chattanooga.
On a trip from the city of San Diego to Lake Tahoe via the Mojave National Preserve, charging can be an issue due to the shortages of charging points. In such a scenario, Walmart in Baker, right next to the largest thermometer globally, with its particularly quick and economical charging services, is an attractive option.
In conclusion, California’s pioneering environmental practices have placed the state at the forefront of e-mobility initiatives, making it a prime location for visitors exploring the region’s wonders through road trips that offer easy access to fast and economical charging networks. Though charging can be an issue on some stretches, it’s still a worthwhile and eco-friendly trip to make with the availability of electric vehicles.
