The Ghulatis On The Go family recently undertook their inaugural electric vehicle (EV) road trip, traveling from Jalandhar to Jaipur. This journey, spanning 641 kilometers, was a significant step for the travel-loving Indian family, who aim to explore the world in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner. Their chosen vehicle for this adventure was a new MG Windsor EV, acquired just the previous month. This first long-distance trip provided valuable insights into EV travel in India, particularly concerning charging infrastructure, vehicle performance, and overall road trip comfort.
The family's primary goal for this trip was to understand the practicalities and challenges of long-distance EV travel within India. They meticulously documented their experience, from the initial battery charge and estimated range to the various charging stops and the associated costs. This detailed account offers a realistic perspective for other EV owners or those considering making the switch to electric vehicles for their road trip adventures. The journey highlighted both the advancements in India's EV infrastructure and areas where further development is needed.
The road trip commenced from Jalandhar, with the family setting out towards Jaipur. The initial leg of the journey involved traveling on the Jalandhar-Delhi Highway, also known as NH 44. This highway is a crucial artery connecting several major cities, and its condition and available amenities play a significant role in the overall travel experience. The family's observations on this stretch of the road, including traffic conditions and the presence of essential services, were key to understanding the feasibility of EV travel on such routes.
Departure from Jalandhar and Initial Range
The journey began with the MG Windsor EV charged to 90%, displaying an estimated range of 288 kilometers. The family expressed excitement about their first road trip in their new electric vehicle and were eager to see how the car would perform on a long-distance route. They planned to monitor the vehicle's range closely and identify suitable charging stops along the way. The initial drive from Jalandhar was described as comfortable, largely due to the spacious and supportive seats of the MG Windsor.
As they drove towards Ambala, the family noted the smooth and quiet operation of their EV, emphasizing the absence of engine noise and fuel consumption. This aspect of EV travel contributed significantly to a relaxed driving experience, a stark contrast to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The journey on NH 44 provided an early indication of the vehicle's comfort and the potential for a pleasant travel experience, despite the challenges that might arise from the nascent EV infrastructure.
First Charging Stop in Rajpura
The first planned charging stop was at a Jio-bp Pulse station in Rajpura, approximately 150 kilometers from Jalandhar. Upon arrival, the vehicle's battery had depleted to 28%. The charging station was equipped with a café, Wildbean Cafe, allowing the family to take a refreshment break while their car charged. This combination of charging facilities and amenities is crucial for long road trips, providing travelers with an opportunity to rest and recharge themselves alongside their vehicle.
The charging process at the Jio-bp Pulse station took some time, during which the family enjoyed coffee and snacks. They observed that the charging cost per unit was Rs. 20.99, which they considered fair. After charging, the MG Windsor reached 87% battery, providing an estimated range of 277 kilometers. This stop highlighted the importance of planning charging breaks strategically, especially when traveling in areas where EV charging infrastructure is still developing.
Challenges and Observations on the Road
Continuing their journey, the family encountered a non-functional Statiq charging station in Panipat. This incident underscored a significant challenge for EV owners in India: the inconsistency and reliability of charging infrastructure. The family speculated that the charger might have been out of order due to a power cut or a machine fault. Fortunately, they had maintained a buffer battery backup, which allowed them to continue their journey without being stranded.
The family noted that while many charging stations are being established across India, some are still under construction or not fully operational. This situation necessitates careful planning and a flexible approach to EV road trips. They emphasized the importance of having sufficient battery backup to mitigate such unforeseen circumstances. Despite these challenges, the overall experience of driving an EV was positive, with the quiet and smooth ride contributing to a comfortable journey.
Food Stops and Further Charging
After the unsuccessful attempt to charge in Panipat, the family decided to make a food stop at Ganpati Dhaba. This stop served a dual purpose: to have lunch and to charge their vehicle using an available Ecoplug charger, which offered 30 kWh charging. They ordered paneer masala dosa and thali, finding the food filling and the tandoori roti exceptionally soft. While they enjoyed their meal, their car continued to charge, optimizing their time on the road.
The family's strategy of combining meal breaks with charging stops proved effective in managing their travel time. They highlighted the convenience of having charging facilities at popular eateries and rest stops. This approach not only saved time but also enhanced the overall road trip experience by allowing them to enjoy local cuisine and relax before continuing their journey. The availability of such integrated facilities is a positive sign for the future of EV travel in India.
Arrival in Neemrana and Final Leg to Jaipur
The journey continued towards Neemrana, where the family found a Hyundai charging station at Hotel Highway King. This stop offered another opportunity to charge their vehicle and explore the surrounding area, which included various shopping options, particularly for traditional Jaipur clothing. The Hyundai charging app provided real-time updates on the charging status, showing the current price, units consumed, and remaining charging time.
After charging, the MG Windsor reached 96% battery, with an estimated range of 304 kilometers. The family then proceeded towards Jaipur, arriving in the evening. The final leg of the journey was marked by the vibrant lights of Jaipur, including a beautifully illuminated flyover, which added a touch of excitement to their arrival. The successful completion of this 641-kilometer journey by EV was a testament to the growing viability of electric vehicles for long-distance travel in India.
Practical Takeaways for EV Road Trips in India
The Ghulatis On The Go family's road trip from Jalandhar to Jaipur offered several key lessons for prospective EV travelers in India:
- Plan Charging Stops Carefully: While EV infrastructure is expanding, it's crucial to research and plan charging stops in advance. Always have backup options and consider the reliability of chargers at each location.
- Maintain Battery Buffer: Always ensure a sufficient battery backup to avoid getting stranded, especially in areas with limited or unreliable charging stations.
- Combine Charging with Breaks: Utilize charging time efficiently by combining it with meal breaks, sightseeing, or shopping. This approach maximizes travel time and enhances the overall experience.
- Monitor Vehicle Range: Keep a close eye on the vehicle's estimated range and actual consumption, as factors like driving speed, terrain, and AC usage can affect battery performance. The MG Windsor provided an on-road range of approximately 240 kilometers, compared to the company's claimed 310 kilometers.
- Embrace the Comfort: Electric vehicles offer a quiet and smooth ride, contributing to a more relaxed and enjoyable journey compared to traditional fuel-powered cars.
- Be Prepared for Infrastructure Gaps: India's EV infrastructure is still evolving. Be prepared for potential challenges such as non-functional chargers or power cuts, and have contingency plans in place.
- Utilize Charging Apps: Make use of dedicated EV charging apps to locate stations, check their status, and monitor charging progress and costs.
This journey demonstrated that while EV road trips in India require careful planning and adaptability, they are increasingly feasible and offer a sustainable and comfortable way to travel. The family looks forward to more EV adventures and encourages others to explore the electric way of traveling.
Watch the Original Journey
This article is connected to the original Ghulatis On The Go video below. Watch it for the complete visual experience and conversations from the road.