SPARK EV ROAD TRIP, 550 MILES!

EV Channels Review

The reviewer embarked on an ambitious 550-mile round trip in a Chevrolet Spark EV, a vehicle not designed for long-distance travel, to prove that lower-range EVs are still viable for road trips. Despite initial concerns about highway efficiency and battery degradation in his 4-year-old model, the reviewer was pleasantly surprised. He found the Spark EV to be more comfortable than expected on the highway and noted that charging stops, though frequent due to the small battery, were quick (15-20 minutes) and often coincided with necessary breaks. A key challenge arose when an older Electrify America charger failed, nearly leaving the car stranded with minimal range. However, this was overcome, highlighting the importance of knowing charger compatibility. The overall cost of fast charging was comparable to a 30 MPG gas car, though significantly more expensive than home charging. The reviewer concluded that with the current charging infrastructure, such a trip is feasible and enjoyable, dispelling the notion that only high-range EVs are suitable for road trips.