As an avid traveler and an expert in the automotive industry, I was thrilled to embark on a journey down Route 66, but this time with a modern twist: an electric vehicle (EV). The iconic road, which turns 100 this year, has long been a symbol of American freedom and adventure. But what would it be like to experience it without the constant worry of finding a gas station? My friends and I set out to find out, and what we discovered was a fascinating blend of history, innovation, and the evolving nature of travel.
The Electric Revolution on Route 66
The journey began in Chicago, where we were greeted by the legendary Gemini Giant, a symbol of the Space Race era. This was a fitting introduction to the road's rich history. As we drove, we couldn't help but notice the growing network of EV charging stations, a testament to the progress made in electric mobility. The US Senate's call for infrastructure expansion in 2024 has certainly paid off, making the road fully drivable by EV by its 100th birthday.
One of the most significant differences between driving an EV and a traditional car is the planning involved. With a range of up to 300 miles on a single charge, we had to be mindful of our battery levels. This meant we had to plan our route carefully, considering charging stations and even carrying hard copies of maps as a backup. It was a refreshing change from the constant fear of running out of gas that previous generations may have experienced.
The Journey Unfolds
Our first stop was Nelly's drive-through café, where we indulged in deep-fried corndogs and root beer. This was a delightful break from the road, and it reminded me of the classic American diner experience. As we continued, we encountered the Ambler's Texaco Petrol Station, a volunteer-run museum that once served as a vital pit stop for travelers. It was a poignant reminder of the road's past, and the contrast between the old and the new was striking.
However, the journey was not without its challenges. After nearly two hours on the road, we were already down to less than half battery. The closest charging station was just a few minutes away, but we soon realized that EV charging can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. This meant we had to be patient and take our time, which allowed us to appreciate the little details along the way.
The Spirit of Route 66
As we drove through Illinois, we were treated to magical moments of Americana. From the statues of Marilyn Monroe and James Dean outside the Polk-A-Dot drive-in to the VW campervan of Route 66 artistic legend Bob Waldmire, we were immersed in the road's rich cultural heritage. The town of Pontiac was preparing for its centennial celebrations, and the energy was palpable.
However, we also encountered our first EV hurdle. As we approached Edwardsville, Illinois, our car's screen showed several petrol stations but no EV charging points for almost 60 miles. This was a reminder that even with the growing network of charging stations, there are still gaps in the infrastructure. It was a moment of uncertainty, but we powered through, just like our plucky, petrol-powered predecessors.
The Future of Route 66
As we crossed the Missouri border to St Louis, we reflected on our journey. The cost of driving Route 66 has increased significantly since 1966, and the sheer expense could lead to another decline in its popularity. However, the electric infrastructure is a new roadside giant, calling a new kind of traveler - one that leaves a lighter footprint. The road's 100th birthday is a celebration of its rich history, but it also marks a new era in travel, where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.
In the end, our journey down Route 66 in an EV was a fascinating experience. It was a blend of history, innovation, and the evolving nature of travel. As we returned to our daily lives, we felt the Spirit of Route 66 at every turn, even without the throaty soundtrack of a petrol engine. It was a reminder that the road's legacy is not just about the past, but also about the future.
