Electric vehicles are no longer just city cars. With Tamil Nadu's growing charging infrastructure and OnePlug's expanding network of DC fast chargers, road-tripping in an EV is not only possible — it's enjoyable.
Whether you're planning a Chennai to Coimbatore drive or a weekend getaway to Madurai, this guide covers everything you need to know for a stress-free EV road trip.
Pre-Trip Checklist
A little preparation goes a long way. Before you hit the highway, make sure you've covered these essentials:
- Charge to 100% before departure (this is one of the few times a full charge is recommended)
- Download the OnePlug app and check station locations along your route
- Plan charging stops every 150-200 km (depending on your EV's range)
- Check tyre pressure — under-inflated tyres reduce range significantly
- Pack a portable Type 2 charger as a backup for emergency AC charging
- Pre-cool or pre-heat your cabin while still plugged in to save battery
- Keep your RFID card or app payment method ready
Route 1: Chennai → Coimbatore via Salem
This is one of the most popular intercity routes in Tamil Nadu, covering approximately 500 km via NH44 and NH544. With OnePlug stations strategically placed along the way, you'll never be more than 150 km from a fast charger.
Suggested Stops
Start — Chennai (0 km)
Depart with 100% battery from the OnePlug station in Chennai. Aim to leave early to avoid city traffic.
Charging Stop 1 — Ulundurpet (~200 km)
Top up at the OnePlug station in Ulundurpet on NH44. Grab breakfast while your car charges 20-80% in ~35 minutes.
Charging Stop 2 — Salem (~340 km)
Perfect lunch stop. Charge at one of the two OnePlug stations in Salem (A2B Ariyanur or A2B Kondalampatti) while you grab a biryani.
Arrive — Coimbatore (~500 km)
Arrive with comfortable range remaining. Coimbatore has 4 OnePlug stations if you need a top-up. Total drive time: ~8-9 hours including charging stops.
Route 2: Coimbatore → Madurai
A shorter but equally scenic route of approximately 210 km via NH544. This can be done with just one charging stop or even direct for EVs with 300+ km range.
Suggested Stops
Start — Coimbatore (0 km)
Depart with 80%+ battery. The route passes through Dindigul with charging options.
Charging Stop — Dindigul (~130 km)
Quick 15-20 minute top-up at a One Plug EV Charging Station. Try the famous Dindigul biryani!
Arrive — Madurai (~210 km)
Arrive comfortably. Visit the magnificent Meenakshi Temple. Total time: ~3.5-4 hours.
Essential EV Road Trip Charging Tips
Charge Between 20% and 80%
DC fast charging is most efficient in this range. Charging from 80% to 100% takes almost as long as 20% to 80%. Plan stops around the 20% mark.
Use Navigation Range Estimates
Most modern EVs show real-time range based on your driving style, terrain, and weather. Trust these estimates over the theoretical range.
Manage Climate Control
AC in Tamil Nadu's heat is non-negotiable. Pre-cool while plugged in, and use seat cooling/fan mode when possible to save battery.
Drive at 80-90 km/h on Highways
EV range drops significantly above 100 km/h due to aerodynamic drag. Cruising at 80-90 km/h gives you the best range-to-time ratio.
The Range Anxiety Myth
Range anxiety — the fear of running out of charge — is the #1 concern for first-time EV road trippers. But here's the reality:
- Most modern EVs (Nexon EV Max, MG ZS EV, Hyundai Ioniq 5) have 300-500 km of real-world range.
- OnePlug has 25+ stations across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, with more being added every month.
- A 30-minute charging stop is enough to add 150-200 km of range — perfect for a coffee and snack break.
- You already stop for fuel, food, and restrooms on long drives. EV charging simply replaces one of those stops.
- The OnePlug app shows real-time station availability so you always know what's ahead.
Pro tip: Do a shorter 100-200 km EV trip first to build confidence with charging stops and range management before attempting a 500+ km journey.