Family Embarks on 2942 km Electric Vehicle Journey

Ms. Wang's family recently embarked on an impressive 2,942-kilometer road trip in an electric vehicle, showcasing not only their adventurous spirit but also the rapid growth of new energy vehicles and charging infrastructure in China. In a period where traditional travel options remain favored, this journey highlights a shift toward sustainable travel methods.

Over the course of 11 days, this family of three traversed seven cities, including Fuzhou, Ganzhou, and Guangzhou, making their way back to Hangzhou in eastern China's Zhejiang Province. Their total expenditure for this remarkable journey amounted to approximately 7,000 to 8,000 yuan, or about 1,013 to 1,158 US dollars, underscoring the practicality of using NEVs for holiday excursions.

Their adventure blended typical tourism practices with spontaneous experiences. Though the family primarily relied on hotels for accommodations, they also opted to spend two nights in their vehicle during stops in Huizhou and Shantou. This thoughtful approach allowed them to remain close to the scenic locations they wished to explore while enjoying their trip at a leisurely pace.

In sharing her experience, Ms. Wang reflected on how the quiet confines of their EV provided a unique opportunity for family bonding. Rather than being distracted by mobile devices, they engaged in meaningful conversations and school-related reading, transforming their vehicle into a space for deeper connection.

Travelers like Ms. Zhao from Suzhou echo the sentiments of Ms. Wang. While she made a solo journey to Jiangxi, the growing network of service areas and monitored parking lots provided her with the reassurance needed to charge her vehicle every time the battery dipped to 40 to 50 percent, ensuring her travels were seamless and stress-free.

Central to the feasibility of long-distance electric journeys is the significant progress in energy infrastructure. The previous concern of range anxiety is beginning to diminish as electric vehicle adoption becomes increasingly reliable and convenient.

For instance, Ms. Wang’s family utilized an EV model with battery-swapping capabilities, which alleviated their dependency on charging stations. By strategically planning their stops at service areas equipped with battery-swapping options, they effectively managed their energy levels throughout the extensive road trip.

Moreover, the expansion of China's national charging network adds to this burgeoning confidence. According to the National Energy Administration, the number of charging points across the nation reached 20.092 million by the end of 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of 49.7 percent.

These journeys are reflective of a significant transformation in China's automotive landscape. In January, data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers indicated that domestic production and sales reached unprecedented levels, surpassing 34 million units, with new energy vehicles accounting for over 50 percent of sales.

While NEV adoption remains high in major urban centers, there exists considerable potential for growth in smaller cities. According to Lang Xuehong from the China Automobile Dealers Association, Tier-3 cities have seen NEV penetration rates of around 20 percent, providing a significant opportunity for expansion supported by developing charging infrastructures.

As the charging network continues to grow, long-distance EV travel is evolving from a daunting prospect into a feasible option for a wider audience. While traditional travel methods continue to dominate, families like Ms. Wang’s are paving the way for embracing the potential of electric mobility, offering consumers new choices in an increasingly sustainable travel landscape.