Long-Distance Travel Guide: Preparing Electric Vehicles for the 2026 Songkran Return Journey. This Songkran festival, the Electric Vehicle Development Center at Prince of Songkla University recommends traveling by electric car for a safe, worry-free trip home or sightseeing without concerns about the battery or electrical system. Here is a summary of tips to prepare your vehicle before traveling.
Driving an electric vehicle (EV) during festival periods with heavy traffic requires advance planning as a key factor.
Reliable Routes: Check charging station locations in advance and set backup points every 50 km as a precaution.
Apps Ready: Update your charging service apps to the latest version and top up your wallet balance to avoid network outages or system congestion.
Check Tire Pressure: EVs weigh more than conventional gasoline cars, so ensure tire pressure matches factory specifications.
Electrical System Check: For vehicles older than two years, inspect the 12V battery (small battery) and remote control battery before setting out.
15% Rule: Always remember not to wait until the battery falls below 15% before finding a charging station, as a broken or crowded station could leave you stranded without enough power to reach the next one.
Driving techniques to maximize travel range:
Eco Speed: Maintain a steady speed between 90–110 km/h and use Eco mode for optimal efficiency.
Avoid Sunlight: Whenever possible, park in shaded areas to keep the battery temperature from overheating.
Use Regenerative Braking: When driving downhill or on slopes, use regenerative braking to recharge the battery and reduce brake pad wear.
During peak charging demand, discipline and courtesy are essential for EV owners:
Booking Discipline: Arrive on time for your charging reservation, and once charging is complete, move your vehicle promptly. Do not occupy the spot unnecessarily.
EV Courtesy: If others are waiting, consider charging only up to 80% to share access and allow fellow travelers to continue their journey.
Battery Rest: Before charging, rest your vehicle in the shade for 5–10 minutes to reduce battery heat accumulation.
Beware of Water (Very Important!): Dry your hands before plugging in, ensure the charging port cover is securely closed, and avoid charging outdoors in areas where Songkran water splashing occurs to prevent moisture entering the electrical system.
Safety must come first, especially when using emergency charging cables:
Correct Cable: If using an extension cable, it must be at least 2.5 sq.mm. in thickness and no longer than 10 meters.
Secure Connections: Plugs must fit tightly, sockets must have proper grounding, and using non-standard adapters is prohibited.
Uncoil Cables: Always fully uncoil cables to prevent heat buildup that could melt the wires.
Avoid Wet Areas: Do not charge in waterlogged locations or use extension cords with high-power appliances simultaneously.
Sensor Check: During Songkran, be cautious of powder or scented water residues that might cover vehicle sensors, potentially causing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to malfunction.
Within the first 30 minutes of charging, watch for abnormalities. If observed, stop charging and unplug immediately:
Plugs or cables are abnormally hot to the touch.
There is a burning smell or smoke emission.
Unusual noises occur, such as sparking sounds or abnormal fan noises.