For many Albertans thinking about buying an electric vehicle (EV), one of the biggest concerns is still range anxiety — the worry that they might run out of charge before reaching their destination. The truth is that today’s EVs travel farther than most drivers realize. With better batteries, expanding public charging networks, and most daily commutes being shorter than expected, range anxiety is quickly becoming a thing of the past.
Most Calgary Drivers Travel Far Less Than an EV’s Range
The average Canadian drives less than 60 kilometres per day. Even the most modest EVs on the market today can travel between 200 and 400 kilometres on a single charge. That means an EV can handle three to five days of normal commuting before needing to plug in again.
If you are unsure how far you actually drive, try resetting your trip odometer one morning and tracking your distance for a few days. Most drivers are surprised to find they travel much less than they thought. For everyday driving in Calgary, an EV’s range is more than enough.
Battery Technology Keeps Getting Better
EV battery technology continues to improve every year. Modern battery packs are more efficient, hold larger capacities, and can maintain performance longer than ever before. Many new models now exceed 400 kilometres per charge, and premium models can travel over 600 kilometres. Manufacturers are also continually improving cold-weather performance, making EVs better suited to Alberta’s climate.
All EV batteries degrade slightly over time, but manufacturers typically warranty them for eight years or more. Even after a decade, most EVs retain over 80 percent of their original range — plenty for daily driving.
Public Charging Stations Are Expanding Across Alberta
There are now more than 5,000 public charging stations across Canada, including dozens of Level 3 fast chargers in and around Calgary. These DC fast chargers can bring most EV batteries from 10 to 80 percent in about 30 to 45 minutes. Apps such as ChargeHub and PlugShare make it easy to locate charging stations near you or along your travel route.
More Calgary businesses, office buildings, and shopping centres are also adding Level 2 charging stations for employees and customers. With home charging as your base and public stations available when you need them, running out of power is highly unlikely.
Plug-In Hybrids Offer a Bridge to Full Electric
For those who frequently drive long distances, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) offer a flexible alternative. They provide an all-electric range of 20 to 80 kilometres for daily use but include a gasoline engine that extends range for road trips. This hybrid setup eliminates range anxiety completely while still cutting fuel costs and emissions for most everyday driving.
Are Electric Cars Good for Long Trips?
Absolutely. Modern EVs are comfortable, quiet, and packed with technology designed for long-distance travel. Many feature built-in trip planners that suggest optimal charging stops and display live charger availability. With the rapid expansion of charging stations along major Alberta highways, including the federally funded ZEVIP network, long trips in an EV are easier than ever.
If you are considering a used EV, make sure it supports Level 3 DC fast charging, as this feature is standard on most newer models but not all older ones. Fast-charging capability can make a major difference in convenience during extended drives.
Ready to Go Electric in Calgary?
Whether you are planning to buy your first EV or upgrade your current home charging setup, ensuring your electrical system is ready is essential. Installing a Level 2 EV charger lets you fully charge overnight while saving on energy costs. Many older Calgary homes may also benefit from an electrical service upgrade to handle higher power demand safely.
Panel Upgrade Experts has been Calgary’s trusted choice for EV charger installation and electrical upgrades since 2013. We help homeowners prepare for the future of transportation with clean, reliable charging solutions. Call 587-800-9788 or contact us online to book your free consultation today.
