Taking a road trip with an electric vehicle (EV) is no longer a dream but a reality. In fact, EVs are becoming the preferred road trip companion for savvy Bay Area travelers who care about both luxury and the environment. Modern EVs, such as the sophisticated Lexus RZ, make long-distance travel both doable and downright enjoyable, offering whisper-quiet comfort mile after mile. With charging infrastructure expanding and navigation systems getting smarter all the time, planning an electric adventure is now a real possibility.
Preparing for Your EV Road Trip: Essential Tips
The 2025 Lexus RZ delivers up to 308 horsepower through its advanced 72.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack — perfect for those Peninsula commutes and weekend escapes to Napa. The RZ 300e gets an EPA-estimated range of 266 miles, while the sportier RZ 450e has an all-electric range of 196 miles, giving you enough power to reach Carmel and back with a few stops. With DC fast charging, your battery can hit 80% in just 30 minutes, while Level 2 home charging takes 9.5 hours for a full charge.
Route planning becomes easier with the right apps. A Better Routeplanner calculates your exact charging needs using vehicle-specific information and weather data, while PlugShare and ChargePoint help you find, and even pay for, EV charging. When it comes to finding hotels with charging facilities, major platforms such as Expedia and Hotels.com have filters to help you find compatible accommodation. Just keep in mind that not all charging stations are reliable, so always have a backup plan, especially in remote coastal areas or mountain locations where options may be thin.
On the Road: Maximizing Efficiency and Enjoyment
Most EVs hit peak efficiency at 50 to 60 mph —perfect for those scenic highway drives. Dropping your speed by just 10 mph can increase energy efficiency by up to 14%, translating to real miles when you’re pushing toward Mendocino or beyond. Using gentle throttle inputs and regenerative braking to maximize energy recovery can also help to extend your EV’s range.
Climate control is another factor, capable of reducing efficiency by 10% to 30% depending on how you use it. Cabin heating can draw as much as 5,000 watts compared to just 75 watts for heated seats. For better range, switch to driver-only climate zones and use heated seats only on long drives. You can also preheat the cabin while your EV’s still plugged in at home to save range once you hit the road.
Good charging etiquette keeps the EV community happy. Stay with your car during fast charging sessions if possible, or at least leave contact information if you must step away — other drivers appreciate knowing when you’ll return. Don’t charge to 100% unless absolutely necessary for your next leg, and make sure to move your car immediately when charging is complete — don’t be that person hogging the stall. Use your charging breaks wisely — grab a coffee, browse nearby shops, stretch your legs, or catch up on a good book — so you’re feeling refreshed once it’s time to get back on the road.
What To Do if Something Goes Wrong
Recent reports suggest that one in five charging sessions run into problems, but that means four out of five work perfectly fine. Almost a quarter of all issues involve payment system glitches, so keep multiple charging apps installed and backup payment methods ready — such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and physical cards — to try if your first attempt fails.
EV roadside assistance has improved dramatically over recent years, offering real solutions for stranded drivers. The AAA now provides mobile charging services in select cities, and manufacturers typically provide solid warranty support. Surprisingly, most EV breakdowns don’t actually involve dead batteries, with flat tires remaining the most common issue
Smart road trip preparation means packing an emergency kit specifically for your EV. Include a heavy-duty 100-foot extension cord for Level 1 charging access from distant outlets, plus essential adapters. Don’t forget standard emergency supplies, too — a comprehensive first aid kit, extra water, nonperishable snacks, warm blankets, a powerful flashlight, and reflective warning triangles are all vital. If you’re travelling in remote coastal or mountain locations where cell service is spotty, consider adding communication backups such as a Starlink Mini, CB radio, or satellite communicator.
Experience the Future of Road Trips With Lexus EVs
Lexus EVs such as the RZ are completely transforming the road trip experience, combining premium comfort with zero-emissions travel. As charging infrastructure expands nationwide and DC fast chargers become more accessible, EV road trips are turning from dreams into reality.
Ready to start your own electric adventure and experience luxury travel that’s both sustainable and sophisticated? Contact us at Lexus Stevens Creek to discover the RZ’s impressive capabilities and receive expert route planning assistance from our knowledgeable EV specialists.
Connect with us
