The Evolution of Electric Vehicle Charging

Can you recall a time before the interstate highway system? Personally, I can't. It's been a constant in my life. However, the infrastructure for electric vehicle charging in America has not always been as developed. In some regions, it's still quite limited. Up to now, I've successfully charged my vehicle in 11 different states.

In the summer of 2021, I traveled through Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan. Then, in the spring of 2022, I made my way through Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado.

While some states offered decent charging options, others, like Kansas and Kentucky, still need significant improvements in their charging networks. Throughout these adventures, my two dogs, Buddy and Grizzly, accompanied me in my 2020 Nissan LEAF, which has a modest range of 150 miles.

If my Nissan LEAF can navigate the American Heartland, it’s safe to say that any Tesla, Ford, Rivian, or other electric vehicle can tackle these journeys with ease. This year, I'm planning to explore western states such as Utah, Nevada, California, Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. I anticipate that Utah, Nevada, and Idaho may present some challenges regarding charging. I plan to postpone trips to Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas until late 2023.

The Southern states seem to offer a mixed bag. I feel confident about traveling through the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida, as their charging networks have expanded significantly. However, I'm less certain about what’s available in Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The Northeast region should be straightforward, and I aim to wrap up any remaining states by the end of 2023. My ultimate goal is to charge my electric vehicle in all 48 contiguous states plus the District of Columbia by December 31, 2023.

Buddy and Grizzly will be by my side for this adventure, so if you’re involved in developing electric vehicle charging stations across America, please consider including dog parks and walking areas in your plans.

Section 1.1 The Road Ahead

I look forward to the upcoming trips and the opportunity to explore new states and their charging infrastructures.

Subsection 1.1.1 Charging Experiences

Chapter 2 Anticipating New Adventures

As I continue this journey, I'm optimistic about the growth of the electric vehicle infrastructure and the adventures that lie ahead.