“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”
— Gustave Flaubert ( French Novelist)
Enjoying travel destinations is lots of fun for everyone, but for me, I enjoy my time in vehicles on the paths that lead from one point to another. With time, everything has changed, and so the demands of comfort have changed with innovations. If you are someone who wants or is going to travel with an Electric car for your next trip to Iceland, then this guide is for you. This guide to Iceland is perfect for traveling with an Electric car, proper planning of your EV Road trip, and all the necessary things essential for your travel.
Why Iceland Is Perfect for Electric Car Travel
Iceland is considered one of the best destinations to travel by electric vehicle, as the country is highly pro-renewable energy and sustainable tourism. Here are the reasons why Iceland is perfect for electric car travel:
- In Iceland, the electricity that is used to charge EVs is primarily from geothermal and hydroelectric energy, so it is environmentally friendly.
- Roadways tend to be peaceful and well-cared for, with scenic surroundings. For travelers, the process can be long, scenic, and part of a strategy to reduce emissions when compared to traditional fuel-powered vehicles.
- Electric vehicle visitors to Iceland can enjoy the natural environment responsibly, and they can help promote a more environmentally friendly tourism sector.
Planning Your Iceland EV Road Trip
It’s crucial to plan ahead for any Iceland trip involving electric cars. When making plans to travel, people should research the map and locate charging stations before they depart. Opting for an EV with a greater range can alleviate travel anxiety, particularly in remote regions. If you book a hotel with charging facilities, you will save time and money during your journey. Local charging apps should also be downloadable, and charging cables should be kept handy as well. Preparing carefully makes traveling smoother and minimizes unexpected delays while on a road adventure.
Finding Charging Stations Across Iceland
The number of charging stations has been growing in Iceland, particularly in the areas surrounding Reykjavik and along the main tourist routes. Charging stops are convenient when sightseeing breaks and are available by shopping areas, hotels, restaurants, and gas stations, where fast chargers are available. Charging apps are the ones that are used by many travelers to find the nearest charging stations that may still be available. But in rural areas like the highlands or the Westfjords, fewer charging stations may still be available. When driving long distances, drivers should recharge their batteries when possible, rather than when they reach a level that could require a complete stop.
Best Routes for Scenic EV Drives
The ring road is still Iceland’s most popular driving route, and is ideal for EV road trippers. The circular tour passes through a number of tourist highlights such as waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and lava fields. There are charging stations available along the majority of the highway, and longer journeys are feasible in EVs. The Golden Circle is another great choice for shorter drives that includes geysers, waterfalls, and historic national parks. Black sand beaches, cliffs, and glacier lagoons provide an unforgettable sight along the route as well.
Weather and Road Safety Tips
The climate in Iceland is fast changing, and it has a significant impact on driving and EV battery performance. Driving range may be affected during winter months by cold temperatures, high winds, snow, and rainfall, so travelers should make more charging stops during the winter season. Daily weather and road condition reports are recommended before driving. Roads in rural areas are often narrow or icy in colder weather, and speed limits must be reduced, and caution exercised while driving. It is also important to bring warm clothes, water, snacks, and emergency supplies in case travelers are caught up in unexpected delays or severe weather.
Budgeting for an Electric Car Journey
Initially, buying an electric vehicle in Iceland can leave a heavy impact on anyone’s pocket, as my purchase did. But for the long term, they literally save you a lot of money as compared to conventional vehicles that either run on petrol or diesel. You can charge your EV at home only; charging these vehicles costs less than refueling vehicles with petrol, CNG, or diesel.
There are many hotels that offer free charging to their guests for their EVs. You can rent EVs that are even cheaper than getting conventional vehicles and buying new electric cars. For your journey, you should never forget to consider accommodation, rental fees, parking fees, and charging fees. There are always peak seasons at any destination; book your stays or car rental services like Lava Car Rental months before to get deals in your budget. Choosing the right routes can save lots of kilometers and extra travel costs.
Sustainable Travel Benefits of EV Tourism
When you are traveling with an Electric vehicle, you are not just enhancing your comfort; your choice also makes a positive impact on the environment. An electric vehicle leaves no carbon emissions, and it does not destroy the beauty of Iceland. These vehicles do not lead to noise pollution, which allows other travelers to enjoy their peace without any disturbance, and also wildlife or nearby communities are not affected by these silent-operated vehicles. In the last few years, Iceland has emerged as a great sustainable tourism promoter.
Conclusion
Traveling with an electric car is just not a sustainable mode of transport; you can also have a great adventurous time, which you would never have experienced in your whole travel life. Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches are more exciting to see when you travel in the great comfort of an Electric Vehicle. Apart from comfort and adventure, ongoing developments and installations of charging points are promoting EV travel numbers with zero carbon emissions. Following my advice in this guide can help you, travelers, in making the right decisions in planning, budgeting, and taking safety measures. Overall, Iceland is a great destination for eco-friendly travel.
Is it cheaper to drive an electric car in Iceland?
Yes. Electric cars cost less compared to traditional petrol or diesel-based vehicles in Iceland.
Is it easy to charge an electric car in Iceland?
Electric charging points are less common in Iceland, which makes it hard to charge electric cars.
Can tourists rent cars in Iceland?
Yes, tourists can definitely rent cars in Iceland. There may be different renting processes that different rental service providers may follow; adhering to their process can help tourists get cars on rent easily.
