Lesson 1: the ”tap” function using your virtual EA card from your Apple iPhone’s wallet NEVER seems to work. I gave up trying after a couple of failed stops…instead, I activated a charge through the EA app on my iPhone and found that to work without fail.

Lesson 2: If the 350kw plugs are filled and you need a big charge (i.e. 20 to 80%), better to start on a 150kw and switch to a 350 when it comes open. Not the most convenient, but it reduces your charging time.

Lesson 3: If you’re not getting the expected charge rate, trying switching plugs or chargers. Sometimes specific chargers seem to be slow and you may get a better result by trying a different one.

Thought 1: BIGGER, CLEARER markings on the chargers that are easy to see and distinguish. As I drive up, it would be nice to easily see which are 150 and which are 350…and which are ”unavailable” (i.e. broken). And how about putting the charger numbers in large, easy-to-find and see font?

Thought 2: Charger locations— the best I found was outside of Cincinnati near a ”Fresh Thyme” market…I was able to procure a selection of the best of Ohio craft brews while I charged. Second best were those located at Sheetz in PA…decent lunch or snacks available. Last were those located a Wal Marts…ok, but you have to walk far to find the restrooms and the food selection isn’t as convenient.

Thought 3: I hope EA is properly modeling EV adoption and building chargers accordingly…I only had to wait for an open plug once on my road trip. I hope it stays that way and they build out sufficient capacity to meet increased EV demand. As demand increases, I would guess that many of their 4 charger stations should be expanded to 6 or 8 in the next year or two…or additional 4 charger stations should be added nearby. We’ll see if bottlenecks occur in the near future.