School holidays are fast approaching, and so is the inevitable rush on Australia’s fast-charging network as electric vehicle (EV) drivers hit the road for family getaways. With more EVs on the road than ever before, and charging stations buzzing along popular routes, Evie Networks is encouraging drivers to plan ahead and embrace the journey.
“We consistently see a surge in charging demand during school holidays,” says Bernhard Conoplia, Head of Charging at Evie Networks. “Families love taking their EVs to the coast, the mountains, or even just interstate. We’re ready for the increase, but we always recommend that drivers be prepared—especially during peak travel periods.”
Where It Gets Busy
The top hotspots are no surprise—corridors connecting capital cities to well-loved destinations light up with charging activity. Think:
- Sydney to coastal NSW and the Blue Mountains
- Melbourne to Sorrento and the Mornington Peninsula
- Brisbane to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast
- Highway routes into Canberra and regional hubs
Evie’s charging sites are strategically placed near shopping centres, parks, and rest stops. “We want the charge to be part of the journey, not a hassle,” Conoplia explains. “Parents can grab a coffee, kids can run around, and everyone’s back on the road in 25 to 35 minutes—refreshed and recharged.”
Charging Behaviours Shift During Holidays
While EV drivers’ charging habits differ based on trip length and vehicle usage, school holiday periods bring their own patterns. Drivers tend to:
- Add around 150km of range per stop
- Dwell at chargers for around 25–35 minutes
- Charge earlier or later in the day to avoid crowds
- Top up more frequently for peace of mind on unfamiliar routes
“Holiday charging is less about efficiency and more about comfort and confidence,” says Conoplia. “Especially for families taking their first long-distance EV road trip.”
Evie also sees stronger usage across its regional networks, especially in Victoria and along major highway corridors. Families are choosing to take the scenic route—and charge while supporting local towns.
It’s Not About the Make, It’s the Mindset
Interestingly, charging behaviours aren’t dictated by EV brand. Whether it’s a Tesla, MG, BYD, or Hyundai, drivers tend to charge based on experience and purpose.
Commercial and fleet EVs often follow predictable, weekday usage patterns. But holiday drivers are more likely to stop more often, charge to a higher percentage, and take advantage of user-friendly features like Autocharge.
“Autocharge really improves the experience,” says Conoplia. “Drivers just plug in and walk away—it starts automatically. No fiddling with apps or RFID cards. That’s a big help when you’ve got tired kids in the back seat.”
Top Tips for a Smoother Trip
Evie has shared their top tips for EV family road trips, including:
- Charge before you go: Leave with a full battery so your first stop is further down the road.
- Make charging stops kid-friendly: Choose sites with toilets, food, or nearby parks.
- Use Autocharge: Available across the Evie network, it saves time and hassle.
- Get the kids involved: Let them help pick stops or play navigator.
- Keep the vibe fun: Snacks, music, games, and stretch breaks go a long way.
- Short stops, better vibes: Avoid trying to fill to 100% every time. Topping up 20–30 minutes more frequently can be faster and more relaxed.
For a full list of family-friendly tips, check out Evie’s guide: Tips for a smooth and stress-free EV trip with the kids
Final Word for Holiday EV Drivers
School holidays are a perfect time to explore Australia in an EV. The network is growing, the tech is smarter, and families are getting savvier with their planning.
“Fast-charging infrastructure is here to support your trip, not disrupt it,” says Conoplia. “The more you plan ahead—especially for busy weekends—the more enjoyable the experience will be.”
Whether it’s your first EV road trip or your fiftieth, make the most of it by charging smart, travelling early, and turning charging time into quality family time.
