Electric road trips

In these challenging economic times, a whole generation of drivers are discovering that electric vehicles (EVs) are not only kinder to the environment, but our bank balance too.

In fact, our Electric Cities campaign revealed that more than two-thirds (68%) of UK drivers would consider switching to an electric vehicle, and 55% said fuel costs were a key reason.

So, with summer fast approaching, and as we slowly say goodbye to a reliance on petrol, we decided to answer a simple question: what are the best electric road trips in the UK and Ireland?

To shortlist the best electric adventures, we reviewed the data around the availability of charging points, the number of charges needed for each journey, and how different EV models compare.

A volt from the blue

Planning a road trip sounds like fun, but aren’t electric cars a bad option over longer distances?

Not anymore. While it was once the case that EVs could barely make it round the block and back, today’s electric cars generally have a range of between 100 and 300 miles on a single charge.

And the technology is improving all the time; in fact, once the next generation of lithium batteries is rolled out, EVs could have a range of 500-600 miles between each charge.

Plus, the UK has pledged a ten-fold increase in public electric chargepoints by 2030, so electric driving should become more accessible in the years to come.

The best electric road trips

We’re blessed with some stunning scenery on these islands, and if you’re looking to embark on your next road trip, here’s all the inspiration you need.

Land of the Lakes

*Figures quoted for ‘number of charges needed’ refer to the Tesla Model 3 – the best selling electric vehicle in the UK

A land of literary giants, the Lake District has inspired visitors for generations. Charge up the EV and traverse the winding roads of ancient drystone walls in this glorious National Park (now a World Heritage Site).

Jurassic Coast

A World Heritage Site on the south coast of England, today’s Jurassic Coast is the remarkable legacy of 185 million years of geological history. Explore the coves, caves and cliffs of this awe-inspiring coastline without needing to recharge.

Norfolk Coast

A coastal drive across North Norfolk takes you through sandy bays, nature reserves and more seal watching opportunities than you can shake a crabstick at. But where should EV drivers park up?

Pembrokeshire Coast 200

Dubbed ‘Britain’s newest road trip’, the Pembrokeshire Coast 200 takes in the twists and turns of south-west Wales’s beautiful coastline. From romantic beaches to quaint castles, this road trip has it all.

The Atlantic Highway

This stretch of England’s south-west peninsula covers magnificent woodlands, gorgeous coastline and ample opportunities for tea ‘n’ scones. Hire a surfboard and catch some Cornish waves.

North York Moors

Rich in cultural heritage and culinary delights, the North York Moors are a must-see electric road trip. Explore red-roofed coastal villages and picturesque pubs, shops and tea rooms across this charming stretch of northern England.

Ben Nevis to Isle of Skye

This jaw-dropping drive takes in Ben Nevis (Britain’s highest peak) and the rugged landscapes, historic sites and fishing villages of the Inner Hebrides in north-west Scotland.

The Black Mountain Pass

Dissecting the western corner of the Brecon Beacons National Park is the Black Mountain Pass – a gorgeous journey across South Wales through unspoilt pastureland and moors.

North Coast 500

If white sandy beaches and jaw-dropping coastline is your thing, this stunning road trip in the North Highlands of Scotland is one for the bucket list.

Expect rugged terrain, misty mountains and glorious sea views on the North Coast 500 (alright – it’s 338 miles on our recommended route, with stop-offs at Ullapool, Durness, John O’Groats, and Dornoch).

Wild Atlantic Way

One of the longest coastal road trips in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way covers the famous west coast of Ireland . Stretching from County Donegal in the north, all the way down to Cork in the south, you’ll encounter everything from majestic monuments to stunning seascapes.

How do different EVs compare?

Not all electric vehicles are created equal, so we thought we’d put together a handy visual so you can start planning your next electric adventure today.