We drove 2,000 km in an EV across Maharashtra: The highway was effortless, the charging wasn’t
Times of India
by TIMESOFINDIA.COMFebruary 26, 2026
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Driving nearly 2,000 km in an electric vehicle (EV) across Maharashtra offered a revealing look at the current state of EV travel—where the driving experience itself is smooth and enjoyable, but the charging infrastructure often falls short. A family road trip from Mumbai to Tadoba and back highlighted both the positives and pitfalls of long-distance EV travel on Indian highways. While the car performed well, the journey underscored the challenges of relying on a fragmented charging ecosystem, which added unnecessary stress and delays.
The highway, including stretches of the Samruddhi Mahamarg, provided a seamless driving experience with its open roads and minimal traffic, making it ideal for cruising. However, the lack of fast-charging stations directly on the highway forced drivers to take detours, adding 15-20 minutes per stop. Charging stations were typically located near exits or food plazas, requiring small diversions that accumulated over time. This was particularly frustrating during late-night drives when tired families wanted quick breaks to charge, eat, and move on.
The real challenge emerged from the charging process itself. Unlike traditional fuel stops with a single payment method, EV charging required multiple apps, prepaid wallets, and varying payment systems. This led to confusion and delays, especially as different stations used different platforms. The lack of a unified system made what should have been a simple task feel like an administrative hassle, detracting from the overall travel experience.
The journey revealed that while the EV itself was reliable, the supporting infrastructure often fell short of expectations. Despite these challenges, the author appreciated the car’s performance and the potential for smoother long-distance EV travel in the future. For readers interested in global EV adoption, this story highlights the importance of improving charging networks to support wider EV usage, particularly in regions like Asia where EV sales are growing rapidly.
Ultimately, the trip serves as a reminder that while electric vehicles offer a cleaner and
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/26/2026