EV Charging Stations Set for Smooth Summer on French Highways, Allego Analysis Reveals
Electric Vehicle Charging: No Summer Rush Expected on French Highways, Per Allego Analysis
Worries about long lines at EV charging points during peak vacation season are common among drivers. With more electric cars on the road and heavy traffic on main routes, many fear gridlock at rest stops. However, a recent simulation by charging network operator Allego offers good news: major congestion is unlikely this summer.
France now boasts around 200,000 public charging spots nationwide, reducing range anxiety. The real concern is overcrowding at specific highway service areas during mass exodus periods. Estimates suggest 6-7% of French holidaymakers will drive EVs, joined by international visitors from northern Europe.
Low Occupancy Rates Even at Peak Times
Allego’s model, drawn from real July data, predicts average use of just 15-20 minutes per hour at key stations, including rush hours. This leaves plenty of availability, avoiding the dreaded wait times.
For instance, on the busy A7 autoroute, the La Coucourde site (Drôme) with nine ultra-fast chargers saw peaks of 20 minutes per hour on busiest Saturdays, mostly 9am to 3pm. Similar patterns at Sénas (Bouches-du-Rhône). On the A10, Rouillé-Pamproux (Deux-Sèvres) matched this from 6am to 3pm.
These patterns align with travel behaviors, notes Allego spokesperson Jean Gadrat. Drivers from Paris, the north, or abroad hit the A7 mid-journey around lunchtime, when batteries need topping up. On the A10, early morning starts from the Paris area lead to staggered recharges throughout the day.
Practical Tips for Hassle-Free EV Road Trips
To make your electric vacation smooth, follow these strategies:
1. Avoid Running on Empty
Always keep enough range to reach an alternative station if needed. Plan routes with buffers for traffic or detours.
2. Charge to 80% Maximum
Recharge speeds drop sharply past 80% battery. Stopping here gets you back on the road faster and frees up spots for others.
3. Have a Backup Option
Major highways have stations every 30km or less. Know your next stop.
4. Use Real-Time Apps
Apps like those from Allego or others show live availability, power levels, and wait times. Adjust plans on the fly.
Bonus tip: Simulate your trip beforehand using tools like ABRP (A Better Routeplanner) to factor in elevation, speed, and weather for accurate range estimates.
This outlook is based on current EV fleet growth projections (30-35% rise) and vacation surveys. Allego, with over 35,000 charging points across 16 European countries, is accelerating zero-emission mobility.
