When embarking on a long road trip in an electric vehicle, preparation is absolutely everything. With the all-electric Ford Explorer at my disposal, I set off on a challenging journey from London to Newcastle and beyond! Our goal? To test the car’s capabilities during peak travel season and in freezing conditions, while making the most of modern EV journey-planning tools like Zapmap.
Spoiler: It was a success, thanks to proper planning, the Explorer’s features, (and a good bit of family teamwork!)
The Ford Explorer: The Perfect Companion for an Electric Road Trip
Before diving into the logistics of our trip, let’s meet the car – he Ford Explorer: • 77kWh battery offering a 374-mile WLTP range. • Fast charging capabilities for super quick pit stops. • A spacious 450-litre boot (expanding to 1,422 litres with seats down)—perfect for luggage, two kids, and a mischievous cat. • Preconditioning features to optimise battery performance for even faster charging. All this in mind, the Explorer made for a comfortable and reliable companion on our 300-mile adventure.Zapmap: The Road Trip Essential
One of the key tools that made this trip smooth was Zapmap, the ultimate app for EV journey planning. Here’s why it was a lifesaver:
1. Route Optimisation: Before setting off, I used Zapmap to pre-plan potential charging stops along the way. This included filtering for high-speed chargers (50kW and above) to ensure quick top-ups.
2. Real-Time Updates: Zapmap’s live data identified available chargers en route, so I never had to worry about waiting in line.
3. Comprehensive Coverage: With Zapmap, I could see all the chargers in the UK—hundreds of options that saved me time and gave me peace of mind.
Tip: Always check your route and charging options before setting off. Even if your car has an impressive range, having backup plans is crucial for a stress-free trip!
The Journey: London to Newcastle
We set off from London with a fully charged battery, aiming to make it to Whitley Bay, near Newcastle, in one go. While the Explorer’s range could technically handle the distance, life happens—kids need bathroom breaks, snack stops, and the unpredictable nature of road trips.
Thanks to Zapmap, I identified a few key charging options along the route, just in case. Here’s how the journey unfolded:
• Northampton Stop: We picked up Grandpa Tony and topped up with an affordable, slower charger at a planned overnight stop.
• Weatherby Services: With 29 high-powered chargers, it was an ideal place to grab a coffee and recharge the battery. Even though we didn’t need to stop, our mantra is charge when you can, not when you have to.
Exploring the Explorer
Back on the road, I couldn’t help but appreciate the thoughtful design of our Explorer.
• Innovative Features: The retractable touchscreen, hidden storage compartments, and a panoramic roof added a luxury feel.
• Comfortable Cabin: The family gave rave reviews for the spaciousness, integrated headrests, and smooth ride quality.
• Preconditioning: This clever feature allowed the battery to warm up on the way to a charger, meaninh we could maximise charging speed upon arrival.
Zapmap: The Must-Have for Any EV Driver
Zapmap didn’t just help with finding chargers—it became the backbone of the trip. Here’s how it made a difference:
• Filter Options: I could select chargers by speed, ensuring we only stopped at rapid or ultra-rapid options for maximum efficiency.
• Reliability: Knowing the locations and live statuses of chargers removed any guesswork, disappointment or stress.
• Peace of Mind: With a full map of available charging points, I always had options, even in remote areas.
The Return Leg: A Small Hiccup
On the way back, we hit a snag when we couldn’t fully charge overnight due to using a slower three-pin plug. However, Zapmap saved the day once again by helping us find fast chargers along the way, ensuring we made it back to London comfortably.
Lessons Learned: Tips for a Successful EV Road Trip
While the journey was smooth overall, there were a few lessons I’d like to share for anyone planning their next EV road trip:
1. Always Be Charging: Even if you think you have enough range, top up whenever you have the chance—it’s better to be safe than sorry!
2. Plan Overnight Stops Wisely: If you’re staying somewhere overnight, ensure they have a reliable charger available. A slow three-pin plug left us less prepared than we’d have ideally liked for the return leg.
3. Drive Efficiently: Use Eco mode, maintain a steady speed, and avoid harsh braking or acceleration to maximise your range.
4. Zapmap is Essential: Whether you’re an EV novice or a seasoned pro, this app makes life so much easier.
Final Thoughts: Why Zapmap and the Ford Explorer Make a Perfect Pair
The Ford Explorer proved to be a capable and comfortable EV, perfect for a long family road trip. But the real hero of the journey was Zapmap, which made planning and charging as seamless as possible. From finding reliable chargers to optimising routes, it’s a must-have for any EV driver.
So, whether you’re planning a short trip or an epic cross-country adventure, the combination of a great EV like the Explorer and a smart planning app like Zapmap means you’re always ready to hit the road.
What do you think? Have you used Zapmap for a road trip? Let me know your tips and experiences in the comments below!
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