Electric vehicles are becoming an integral part of a sustainable lifestyle for many people. Recently, a passionate couple embarked on an adventurous electric road trip across India, showcasing the practicality and fun of green travel. They drove their electric cars – a Tata Curvv and a Mercedes-Benz EQB – while enjoying the beautiful landscape and discovering the challenges of electric travel. Here’s a detailed account of their remarkable journey.
Embracing a Green Lifestyle
Going green is more than just a trend; for this couple, it is a way of life. They own two electric cars, an electric bike, a 14-kilowatt solar setup at home, and have created a small oasis with over 300 plants. Their commitment to sustainability drives their choices, encouraging others to make environmentally friendly decisions too.
The Road Trip: A 6,400-Kilometer Adventure
Planning the Trip
The couple planned a 14-day road trip, traveling from Bangalore to iconic locations like Rann of Kutch and Jaisalmer. Their journey focused on sustainable energy, minimizing their carbon footprint, and experiencing the diverse landscapes across India.
Unexpected Joys and Challenges
While they faced some initial hurdles, particularly finding charging stations along their route, these challenges added to the sense of adventure. Encountering several charging stations, often found near restaurants and rest areas, helped them take much-needed breaks, reducing fatigue and making the journey even more enjoyable.
The Journey in Numbers
- Total Trip Days: 16
- Core Travel Days: 11
- Distance Covered: 6,387 km (Bangalore to Bangalore), 5,522 km (Nellore to Nellore)
- Average Km per Day: 400 (Bangalore to Bangalore), 502 (Nellore to Nellore)
- States Covered: 7
- Total kWh Consumed: 954 (Bangalore to Bangalore), 816 (Nellore to Nellore)
- Km per kWh: 6.7 (Bangalore to Bangalore), 6.77 (Nellore to Nellore)
- Charging Stops: 31 (Bangalore to Bangalore), 27 (Nellore to Nellore)
Daily Highlights of the Trip
Day 1: Bangalore to Tirupati
The couple kicked off their adventure by leaving Bangalore in the late afternoon. They drove 250 km to Tirupati, where they charged their electric vehicle at a Tata Power Station and spent the night at their sister’s home.
Day 2: Tirupati to Nellore
Day two was about family. They drove to Nellore, where they dropped off their kids and dog, taking a relaxed approach to travel.
Day 3: Nellore to Hyderabad
They visited friends in Ongole, charging their vehicle along the way. They arrived in Hyderabad by evening and charged the car again before resting at a friend’s place.
Day 4: Hyderabad to Ellora Caves and Dhule
Opting for scenic routes, they explored the mesmerizing Ellora Caves, charging at various stops throughout the day before heading to Dhule for the night.
Day 5: Dhule to Statue of Unity and Mehsana
After a restful stay, they traveled to the Statue of Unity, taking time to enjoy the attractions and charge their vehicle before moving on to Mehsana.
Day 6: Mehsana to Rann of Kutch
The drive to Rann of Kutch stood out as one of the most exciting segments of the trip. They made a strategic stop for charging while also enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of the white desert.
Day 7: Rann of Kutch to Barmer
On their way to Barmer, they visited important archaeological sites while continuing to make stops for charging and meals.
Day 8: Barmer to Jaisalmer
Traveling to Jaisalmer, they enjoyed the historic city and charged their car before heading to a desert camp for the night.
Day 9: Jaisalmer Desert Safari
Experiencing a desert safari and visiting significant historical sites made for a memorable day. They returned to Jaisalmer, charged their vehicle, and prepared for the next leg of their journey.
Day 10: Pachpadra to Ujjain
They took a detour to Udaipur for charging and a quick meal before reaching Ujjain for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Ujjain to Khamgaon
They visited the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain before heading toward their next destination, charging along the way.
Day 12: Khamgaon to Hyderabad
Opting not to stop overnight, they continued to Hyderabad, celebrating New Year’s Eve with friends after charging their vehicle.
Day 13: Hyderabad to Nellore
Reuniting with family, they enjoyed a leisurely day with loved ones after driving from Hyderabad.
Days 14 and 15: Family Time
They took time to relax and bond with family, including taking their dog to the beach for the first time.
Day 16: Returning to Bangalore
Finally, they wrapped up their remarkable journey with a drive back to Bangalore, stopping for lunch and charging along the way.
Reflecting on the Journey
This 6,400-kilometer expedition was about more than just travel – it was an adventure that highlighted the beauty of India’s landscapes and the practicality of electric vehicles for long distances. The couple emphasized the importance of sustainability and their determination to inspire others to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Looking Forward
This journey reinforced their belief in electric vehicles and their role in creating a greener future. They plan to continue their adventures, with aspirations of attending the Maha Kumbh Mela next, signaling their commitment to sustainable travel.
In conclusion, the couple’s trip serves as a reminder that sustainable travel is not only possible but can also be incredibly enjoyable. Each stop and experience enriched their journey, proving that the focus on eco-friendly practices is both a responsible and rewarding approach to travel.