Charging Electric Vehicles Without Nearby Outlets or Chargers

As the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, it is common for electric car owners to seek out public charging stations for convenience and peace of mind. However, there are instances where these stations are not readily available. This scenario can present challenges, but it is far from insurmountable. In this article, we explore the various methods electric car owners can use to charge their vehicles when there are no nearby power outlets or charging stations.

The Unique Challenge: A Remote Spot in the UK

One such example can be found in the mainland UK. According to my research, the only area lacking a 50kW or faster public charging station within a 25-mile radius by road is along a remote country road in the middle of the Cairngorms. However, there is a slower public charger in Braemer, making the situation less severe.

Comparison with Gasoline Vehicles

Interestingly, gasoline cars face a similar challenge. They, too, can find themselves in situations where no gas stations are available. However, one significant difference is that electric vehicles can be charged almost anywhere there is a 115-volt or 230-volt outlet. This flexibility adds to the convenience of owning an electric vehicle.

Planning is Key for EV Owners

Experienced EV owners typically top off their vehicles at home every night to ensure a full charge for the next day. For daily commuters, the likelihood of running entirely out of charge between these home charging sessions is rare. Nonetheless, we will explore how to handle the scenario where an EV does run low on power in a remote area without a charger.

Nearby Charging Solutions

In many areas, the density of charging locations is much greater than that of gas stations. In the San Francisco Bay Area, it would be almost impossible to be more than 2 miles from some form of charging facility. If this isn’t possible, you can always request a short tow to the nearest charger. An innovative approach is to charge the EV during the tow if using a rope, reducing the necessary distance significantly.

Another option is to receive a short boost charge from another electric vehicle like a Rivian F150 or Cybertruck. This method involves only needing a 10-minute charge to provide sufficient power to reach a charger.

Home Solutions and Neighbors

For some EV owners, the situation is much more straightforward. They don’t need to charge in remote areas because they have already planned their journeys and charged beforehand. In the absence of public charging stations, EV drivers from the early days used home outlets with the help of permission from house owners.

Some house owners are willing to contribute by providing a 400V socket and even offering a pint of beer. This arrangement highlights the community spirit that supports EV owners during challenging situations. For those who used to drive EVs before public charging stations became common and when vehicles had a range of less than 100km, the key was to locate a public accessible socket and publish its location for the community to use.

By understanding the different methods available and preparing in advance, electric car owners can navigate the challenges posed by remote charging locations with confidence and ease. The flexibility and advantages of electric vehicles make these challenges manageable and highlight the adaptability of contemporary EV technology.

Conclusion

While the prospect of being stranded without charging facilities may seem daunting, it is a challenge that can be overcome with proper planning and community support. From nearby public chargers to short tow services and even communal access to home sockets, electric car owners have a variety of solutions to keep their vehicles powered up. By staying informed and prepared, electric car owners can ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience regardless of where their journey takes them.