Journalist Drives EV 2,350 Miles: "Easier Than Expected

Mark Phelan from the Detroit Free Press just completed what many drivers fear is impossible: a 2,350-mile road trip in an electric vehicle. His verdict after driving a Cadillac Optiq from Detroit to New Orleans? It was actually easier and less stressful than expected.

The trip added only about two hours to his total travel time compared to a gas-powered vehicle. Instead of arriving around noon, Phelan rolled into the French Quarter shortly after 2 p.m., the difference between an early and late lunch on a two-week vacation.

Most charging stops lasted just 20 to 35 minutes, giving Phelan time to walk his dog Rocket or grab a quality coffee. He found himself enjoying the forced breaks rather than rushing through gas station stops like usual.

The trip also saved him between $100 and $200 compared to what he would have spent on premium gas for a similar luxury SUV. Current gas prices made the electric option clearly cheaper, even with charging fees.

Phelan's Cadillac Optiq offered a 317-mile range and smart route planning that recommended charging every 125 to 180 miles. The car's Google-based system accurately predicted exactly where to stop, how long to charge, and what battery level he'd have at each destination.

Tesla chargers proved the most reliable, working flawlessly every time. Newer charging networks from ChargePoint and Ionna also performed well, with fast speeds and easy-to-use systems.

The Bright Side

This real-world test shows electric vehicles have crossed a major threshold. Long road trips are no longer just possible, they're practical. The infrastructure is improving rapidly, with reliable chargers becoming the norm rather than the exception.

Hotels increasingly offer overnight charging, and truck stops are adding amenities like dog runs and quality food options at charging stations. What once seemed like a risky experiment is becoming routine.

For drivers considering an EV, Phelan's advice is simple: use vehicles with good route planning, stick to reliable charging networks, and relax. The technology works, and it's getting better every month.

The future of road tripping is here, and it runs on electricity.