Route Planner

What is an EV route planner?

An EV route planner is a navigation tool that helps electric vehicle drivers plan journeys by recommending the most efficient route based on factors such as the vehicle's battery State of Charge (SoC), estimated driving range, charging station locations, charger compatibility, and expected charging stops. Unlike conventional navigation systems, a route planner for electric vehicles accounts for charging requirements to help drivers complete their journey with confidence.

In simple terms, an EV trip planner helps drivers decide where to drive, where to charge, and when to charge during a journey.

Importance of an EV route planner

An EV route planner makes electric vehicle travel more predictable, efficient, and convenient. By factoring in battery range and charging infrastructure, it helps reduce range anxiety, minimise unnecessary detours, and optimise travel time. Many route planners also use live information such as charger availability and traffic conditions to recommend better routes and charging stops, improving the overall driving experience for both individual EV owners and commercial fleet operators.

Uses of an EV route planner

Common uses of an EV route planner include:

• Planning long-distance EV journeys based on the vehicle's available battery range
• Identifying compatible charging stations along a route
• Recommending when and where to stop for charging
• Estimating travel time, charging time, and arrival battery percentage
• Adjusting routes based on traffic conditions or charger availability
• Optimising routes and charging schedules for commercial and fleet vehicles

Examples of an EV route planner

Some practical examples of charging route planners include:

• An EV driver planning an intercity trip and receiving recommended charging stops along the route.
• A navigation app rerouting a driver to a nearby available fast charger when the planned charging station is occupied.
• A driver comparing alternative routes based on charging time and total journey duration.
• A fleet operator using an EV trip planner to optimise delivery routes and vehicle charging schedules.
• A road-trip planner estimating the battery State of Charge on arrival and recommending an additional charging stop if required.