MY FIRST EVER EV ROAD TRIP EXPERIENCE | HYUNDAI IONIQ 6

EV Channels Review

The reviewer embarks on their inaugural EV road trip in a 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 RWD, heading to the MAMA Spring Rally. While the vehicle's range theoretically covers the ~270-mile distance, interstate speeds significantly reduce efficiency, necessitating a charging stop. The experience at an Electrify America station in Milwaukee was mixed. The reviewer encountered 'Signet surge,' leading to inconsistent and slower-than-expected charging speeds (maxing out around 150 kW on a 350 kW dispenser), despite favorable ambient temperatures and a low starting state of charge (14%). Charging was paid by the minute in Wisconsin, increasing costs due to the slower speeds. The charger's location, a Walmart parking lot off the interstate, added inconvenience and travel time. The reviewer notes that while the Ioniq 6 can maintain mid-70s mph speeds for approximately 205 miles, reducing speed to 60-65 mph significantly improves efficiency (3.8 miles/kWh vs. ~3.3 miles/kWh). Ultimately, the trip highlighted the current challenges in public EV charging infrastructure, particularly reliability and charger placement, contrasting it with the convenience of gas stations. The reviewer emphasizes the need for a more widespread and reliable DC fast-charging network over simply increasing vehicle range.