Is a 150 Mile Range EV Enough for Mountain Driving?

Here's the thing — if you're thinking about taking your 150-mile range EV up into the mountains, you’re stepping into a different ballgame than your typical city commute. Mountains test your electric vehicle (EV) in ways most people don’t realize until they’re halfway up a steep grade, watching that range meter plummet way faster than it did on the flat.

Ever notice how the range meter lies? It’s optimistic at best—especially at high altitude and cold temps. That 150-mile range on paper? Forget it in the sierras, rockies, or Appalachians without some serious prep. So, what's the actual plan when you own a short range EV in mountains and want a smooth, worry-free trip?

Why Mountain Driving Crushes Your EV Range

When it comes to driving your EV in rugged terrain, two invisible foes gang up on your battery range: altitude and temperature.

High Altitude = Lower Battery Efficiency

Unlike gas engines that can sometimes breathe easier at altitude, your EV’s battery chemistry doesn’t appreciate thin air. Higher elevations mean lower air pressure, which affects cooling for the battery. Your car’s battery pack gets hotter when climbing steep grades (hello, all that energy going uphill), and the cooling system works harder, draining the battery faster. Result? You eat into your range way quicker than your dashboard predicts. If you’re driving through 8,000+ feet of elevation, expect at least a 10-20% range drop.

Cold Weather Is the Silent Range Killer

Mountain mornings bring freezing temps that do nasty things to batteries. Batteries hate the cold; their internal chemistry slows down, reducing available power and efficiency. Heating your cabin with electricity also saps your battery. Realistically, a 150-mile advertised range in 20°F weather could feel more like 100-120 miles.

Pre-Trip Planning: Your Mountain Lifeline

If you’re driving an older EV mountain trip or a new one with a modest range, preparing for frequent charging stops isn’t just recommended — it’s mandatory. Comfort comes from knowing the next recharge is within reach.

Step 1: Know Your Route & Elevation Changes

Don’t just trust your car’s built-in navigation. Use a dedicated EV trip planner that accounts for altitude, temperature, and charging stations. A Better Route Planner (ABRP) is my go-to tool here. It lets you input your EV model, current state of charge, and environmental conditions, then plots the best route with charging stops optimized for your battery and terrain.

Step 2: Scout Charging Stations with PlugShare

ABRP is great for planning; PlugShare is perfect for on-the-ground intel. Before every mountain drive, I obsessively check PlugShare reviews the night before to confirm chargers are operational and safe to use. It’s amazing how many times a charger listed on official sites is offline or clogged by non-EVs or ICE vehicles.

Step 3: Set Up Charging Accounts in Advance

You know what's worse than a broken charger? Sitting at a busy DC fast charger struggling to create an account or waiting for an app’s verification to complete. Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint all require accounts or apps to use their chargers. Don’t wait until you’re stressed out on a mountain road—get those apps downloaded and payment info saved before your trip.

Charging Costs and Infrastructure in the Mountains

The good news? Major networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint have steadily expanded mountain-area fast charging, but it’s not ubiquitous. Be ready for some sections with only Level 2 chargers or none at all.

Charging Network Typical Cost per Session Charger Type Electrify America $30 - $80 DC Fast Charger (150-350 kW) EVgo $30 - $70 DC Fast Charger (50-350 kW) ChargePoint $20 - $60 Level 2 and DC Fast Charger

Note that prices vary by charger speed and region—mountain chargers may skew higher due to installation costs. Charging sessions typically range $30-80 for a decent top-up. Budget for these expenses, and remember, charging to 80% is https://www.dangerousroads.org/around-the-world/vehicles/13782-how-to-plan-a-safe-ev-road-trip-through-high-altitude.html usually optimal—hogs who go to 100% can dramatically slow down the queue.

Strategies for Managing Limited Infrastructure

Charge When You Can: Don’t wait to stop until your battery is low. If an opportunity for a fast charge presents itself, take it—even if you think you can make another 20 miles. Mountains can be unpredictable. Carry Backup Chargers: I always have two tire inflators, but you should consider a portable Level 1 charger and cables for emergency Level 2 charging if your EV supports it. Know Your Destination's Charging Options: Hotels or lodges sometimes boast EV charging but only offer a slow Level 1 outlet or none at all (and sometimes broken). Call ahead or verify on PlugShare. Adjust Driving Habits: Use eco modes, cruise control where safe, and avoid excessive acceleration uphill. Even slowing down a bit can stretch your battery miles.

Final Word: Is a 150 Mile Range EV Enough for Mountain Driving?

Yes—but only if you plan aggressively and know what you’re getting into. A 150-mile EV in mountains means you’re driving on a tight margin. High altitude and cold can slash your range by 20-30%, and sparse fast charging means you need to budget for frequent and sometimes pricey top-ups. But with tools like A Better Route Planner and PlugShare, and accounts set up for Electrify America, EVgo, or ChargePoint chargers, it’s doable. The key is preparation and expectations—don’t expect to treat your mountain drive like a city commute.

If you’re an older EV owner or someone new trying a short range EV in mountains, start slow, stay flexible, and keep those apps open. Over-plan every charge, and over-prepare with gear. You’ll have a better trip and maybe even enjoy the challenge.

Drive safe, and keep your spreadsheet ready.