The journey upstate was a breeze thanks to the Ioniq 5’s efficiency and performance. We cruised along the highway, passing by lush green landscapes and quaint towns, all while enjoying the comfort of the spacious interior and the advanced technology at our fingertips.
As we arrived at Lake George, we were greeted by the serene beauty of the crystal-clear waters and the majestic Adirondack Mountains in the distance. We spent the weekend hiking through pristine trails, taking in the fresh mountain air, and immersing ourselves in nature’s splendor.
Throughout our trip, the Ioniq 5 never failed to impress us. Its range and charging capabilities gave us the freedom to explore without any worries about running out of power. The regenerative braking system helped us conserve energy while descending steep mountain roads, adding to the overall efficiency of the vehicle.
By the end of our adventure, we were sad to say goodbye to the Ioniq 5. It had become more than just a rental car to us – it was a reliable companion that had taken us on an unforgettable journey through the scenic landscapes of upstate New York.
As we returned the car to the bustling streets of New York City, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible experience we had with the Ioniq 5. It had proven to us that electric vehicles are not only practical but also enjoyable to drive, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly option for travelers looking to explore the world around them.
In the end, our Memorial Day weekend getaway had been a success, thanks in large part to the Ioniq 5. It had taken us on a memorable adventure, showcasing the beauty of upstate New York and the capabilities of modern electric vehicles. We left with a newfound appreciation for the power of technology and the wonders of nature, eager to plan our next electric road trip. Taking a road trip in an electric vehicle (EV) used to be a daunting prospect, with concerns about range anxiety and the availability of charging stations. However, as EV technology continues to improve and charging infrastructure expands, more and more people are discovering the benefits of electric travel. One recent road trip in a Hyundai Ioniq 5 highlighted just how cost-effective and convenient EV road trips can be.
The journey began with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 provided by Avis, which had a starting state of charge of 61% and an indicated range of about 190 miles. With enough buffer to leave the city before needing to stop for a charge, the trip quickly proved to be cost-effective. Charging stops were strategically planned at convenient locations, often paired with meal breaks, ensuring that the car returned each time with more range than needed.
One of the most notable aspects of the trip was the minimal cost compared to a gas-powered crossover. Charging rates outside of the city were significantly cheaper, making it more economical to venture further away from urban areas. The first charging stop near the Catskills cost $31 at $0.47 per kWh, providing enough range to comfortably reach the Airbnb and travel to the trailhead the following morning. A second stop as a precaution in a remote mountainous area added another $20 to the total cost.
In total, the trip required just three charging stops over approximately 560 miles of driving. The total charging cost amounted to around $80, a fraction of what it would have cost to fuel a gas-powered vehicle over the same distance. With rising gas prices, the cost benefits of driving an EV are becoming increasingly evident. While charging at home remains the most cost-effective option, relying on public charging infrastructure is now a viable and economical choice for road trips.
Comparing the cost of the trip in the Ioniq 5 to a gas-powered crossover revealed significant savings. At the average gas price in New York, driving a fuel-sipping hybrid would have cost over $100 for the same distance covered in the EV. Even a hybrid rated at 40 mpg would have been more expensive than the EV, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of electric travel.
In conclusion, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 proved to be a cost-effective and efficient choice for a road trip, outperforming comparable hybrids and gas-powered vehicles in terms of total costs. As EV technology continues to advance and charging infrastructure expands, electric road trips are becoming increasingly accessible and affordable. With the right planning and awareness of charging options, EV owners can enjoy the benefits of sustainable travel without breaking the bank. My recent road trip experience in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 highlighted just how cost-effective and convenient electric vehicles can be compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles. Here’s a breakdown of the numbers from my trip:
Vehicle Expenses: Over the course of 3 days and 560 miles, I drove the Hyundai Ioniq 5. If I had opted for a comparable hybrid crossover that gets around 40 mpg, based on gas prices at $4.58 per gallon, I would have spent more on fuel. Similarly, if I had chosen a gas SUV with a mpg of 25, the costs would have been even higher.
Rental Cost: The rental cost for the Hyundai Ioniq 5 for 3 days was $480. Comparatively, renting a traditional gas-powered vehicle could have cost me upwards of $600 or more.
Tolls: I spent $60 on tolls during the trip, which would have been the same regardless of the vehicle I chose.
Charging/Refueling: Charging the Hyundai Ioniq 5 cost me $80 during the trip. If I had opted for the hybrid crossover, refueling would have been around $64, while a gas SUV would have cost approximately $103.
Total Cost: In total, my expenses for the trip in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 amounted to $620. If I had chosen a traditional gas-powered vehicle, the costs would have been significantly higher, with estimates of more than $700 for the hybrid crossover and more than $750 for the gas SUV.
Despite not employing any specific cost-saving measures such as hypermiling or meticulous route planning, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 proved to be a cost-effective and efficient choice for the road trip. The driving experience was also vastly superior, thanks to the instant torque of the e-motors and the smooth, quiet ride of the vehicle.
As gas prices continue to rise, the financial benefits of electric vehicles are becoming more apparent. Not only do EVs offer a better driving experience and cutting-edge technology, but they also present a compelling case for cost savings in the long run. The evidence from my trip clearly demonstrates the advantages of going electric, especially in the face of soaring gas prices.

