The ultimate EV travel guide: summer driving tips for employees
As annual leave requests come flying in, many employees will be planning road trips and staycations to make the most of the summer. Thanks to improvements in charging infrastructure, employees with electric vehicles (EVs) are no exception.
Most modern EVs can handle hundreds of miles on a single charge, making them a greener and convenient way to adventure across the UK. Here are some tips for planning an electric road trip:
Preparing for your EV road trip
Encouraging employees to plan ahead can help reduce travel-related stress and make journeys more enjoyable for the whole family. Planning charging stops in advance, including backup options, helps avoid unnecessary detours or delays.
Most EVs have built-in navigation systems that will highlight en-route chargers, making travel days more efficient.Charging breaks don’t need to stop the holiday fun - enjoy a meal, go for a stroll, stop off at a museum, or let children burn off some energy at a play area. By allowing a little extra time, the journey becomes more relaxed and far more enjoyable.
When booking accommodation, look for options with on-site charging or nearby public charge points. This means the EV can recharge overnight and start the next day with a full battery.
Travelling abroad
Before employees drive in Europe, they should make sure all essential documents are in place, including a valid passport and vehicle documentation. Drivers of leased vehicles will need a Vehicle on Hire Certificate (VE103B), which should be requested from the vehicle or salary sacrifice provider at least a few weeks before travelling. Depending on the destination, an international driving permit (IDP) may also be required.
It’s also important to check local driving regulations before setting off. Some countries require specific equipment to be carried in the vehicle or stickers to be displayed, while others operate low emission zones (LEZs) that may have entry requirements or restrictions.
Summer driving
Encourage employees to carry out a few simple checks before they set off. Tyres should be inspected, windscreen wash topped up, and lights checked to ensure everything is working correctly.
Comfort is just as important as safety. Sunglasses can help reduce glare from bright sunshine, while appropriate footwear will ensure drivers can operate vehicle controls safely. Flip flops are best saved for the beach.
Warm weather can sometimes bring with it more traffic, so make sure to bring water for the driver and passengers in case your journey time is longer than anticipated. Not only will this make the journey more comfortable, but safer, as dehydration can impact driver concentration levels and reaction times.
Finally, employees should remain vigilant for cyclists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and wildlife, which are often more prevalent on the roads during the summer months.
Supplied by REBA Associate Member, Zenith Vehicles
Headquartered in Leeds, Zenith has been a leader in salary sacrifice car schemes for over 25 years.
