How the road trip planner works
Why we discount the EPA range
EPA range is a mixed-cycle estimate; sustained 70–75 mph highway driving typically delivers 75–85% of it, and cold weather can take another bite. Planning legs at 80% of rated range (charge to 80%, arrive with margin) matches what experienced road-trippers actually do.
The 20–80% rhythm
DC fast charging is fastest when the battery is low and slows dramatically approaching 80%. The fastest trips charge in short, frequent bursts — arrive at 15%, leave at 75% — rather than long soaks to 100%. Planning software defaults to this rhythm; the calculator reflects it in the minutes-per-stop input.
Routing reality
Stops are where chargers are, not where the math idealizes. Corridor networks along interstates are dense; rural detours can add 30–60 minutes. Check the actual charger locations on your route before trusting any stop plan, and keep a backup station in mind for each leg.