Check 1: Plan your route.
Want to avoid surprises in areas with a limited number of charging points? Use the Q8 electric app to see all fast chargers along your route.
Heading to the slopes in your EV? Get there & back with ease
Long distances & freezing temperatures & steep mountain passes & maybe even a roof box packed with ski gear… Taking your electric car on a ski trip might seem like a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Want to get to the mountains with ease? With our handy checklist, you’ll turn any obstacle course into a green slope.
Checklist: charging with peaks & valleys
Check 2: Plan your charging stops wisely.
Remember, your range drops faster when driving uphill, so it’s best to start steep climbs fully charged. TIP: Driving downhill afterward? Max out regenerative braking (also called ‘one-pedal driving’ or the B-mode) to recharge your battery while you coast.
Check 3: Check your charging cards.
Not every charging card works everywhere. Luckily, your Q8 electric charging card gives you access to 500,000+ charging stations across Europe.
Check 4: Can you charge at your destination?
Make sure you have a charging plan for local trips once you arrive. Some hotels require reservations for their charging points.
Check 5: Prepare for cold weather.
Low temperatures affect your driving range. Find out how to keep your EV winter-ready for a worry-free trip.
Checklist: general ski trip do’s & don’ts
Check 6: Pack snow chains.
Sometimes compulsory, always essential. Check local regulations, make sure they fit your tires, and practice installing them before your trip.
Check 7: Get an environmental sticker.
Different Alpine countries have their own eco-zone rules. See details below:
Check 8: Consider a toll badge.
Most ski routes have toll roads. Getting a toll badge in advance can save you a lot of time at the booths.
Check 9: Read up before you go.
Driving an EV on holiday? We’ve gathered 9 must-know tips to help you travel stress-free.
Check 10: Prepare for possible breakdowns.
Towing an electric car isn’t the same as towing a petrol car – it’s best to avoid towing altogether. Make sure you have professional roadside assistance that can lift your EV completely off the ground.
Driving through France & Germany & Austria & Switzerland & Italy
A ski trip always takes you through at least one Alpine country, and each has its own rules & road requirements. Here's what you need to know before you go:
France
- Environmental sticker: Required in many cities with low-emission zones. Available for ~€5 from the Crit'Air website.
- Toll roads: Most highways charge tolls based on distance. A toll badge will help you skip the queues.
- Fast chargers: There are many along major highways (especially the Route du Soleil), but check for availability in high-altitude ski resorts.
Germany
- Environmental sticker: Required in environmental zones. Costs €6 to €17.50 and can be purchased online, at garages, or at inspection stations.
- Toll roads: With a few exceptions, you won't pay tolls anywhere.
- Fast chargers: Widely available, usually at service stations, petrol stations & parking lots. Many offer 150-350 kW charging, which means a full charge in 15-30 minutes.
Austria
- Environmental sticker: Required in some cities & temporary eco-zones. Available online for €40 (valid for life).
- Toll roads: You'll need a digital toll sticker or physical vignette on all motorways & highways. Available from €19.95 for 10 days at petrol stations, borders & online.
- Fast chargers: Increasing availability. Most ski resorts are within 50 km of a fast charger.
Switzerland
- Environmental sticker: Sometimes required in temporary low-emission zones.
- Toll roads: A toll vignette is required on motorways and expressways. Costs ~€50 (valid for one year). Available at petrol stations, post offices & online.
- Fast chargers: Widely available at rest areas, in petrol stations & on highways. You rarely have to drive more than 30km to find one.
Italy
- Environmental stickers: Many cities have green zones, but rules vary by location.
- Toll roads: Many highways charge tolls based on distance. A toll badge speeds up payment.
- Fast chargers: The Italian Alps are well covered. Of Italy's 700 fast chargers, 200 are in the north.