Electric cars in San Francisco

Exploring San Francisco in an Electric Car: A Guide To EV powered Road Trips

From the Golden Gate Bridge to Lombard Street, there’s no better way to explore San Francisco than in an electric vehicle (EV). A mix of city streets, hilly gradients, and winding roads make San Francisco the perfect place to put an EV through its paces.

1. The growing network of EV charging stations

2. California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) lets you earn rebates on EV purchases costing $1,000 to $7,000.

Here’s a guide on where to find charging stations. We’ll also share EV-centric road trips that focus on Tesla models that are available in San Francisco.

First things first, let’s talk about getting you your EV.

If you're looking to buy an electric car such as a Tesla in San Francisco there are several Tesla dealerships in the area. These dealerships will let you test-drive various models before making a purchase. Many companies also offer a Tesla rental in San Francisco which is a great way to experience the car before you buy one.

Tesla owners can take advantage of the Tesla Supercharger Network which has several locations throughout the Bay Area. Additionally, there are several public charging stations that are compatible with various EV models. You can also use various websites and mobile apps to search for charging stations near you.

Now that you know where to get your EV and how to find charging stations, it's time to hit the road. Here are some destinations to choose from:

The Pacific Coast Highway

A popular route is to take a drive down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) that connects San Francisco and Los Angeles. This scenic route offers stunning views of the coast and there are several charging stations along the way to ensure that you have enough power to make it to your destination.

Napa Valley

Another idea for a great road trip is to head north to Napa Valley which is known for its picturesque vineyards and delicious wines. With an EV such as the Tesla Model X, you can comfortably seat up to 7 people, making this a great option for a weekend getaway with a group.

In addition to the Pacific Coast Highway and Napa Valley, there are several other road trip destinations located a little further away from San Francisco that can be explored in an EV.

Lake Tahoe

This scenic lake is just four hours away from San Francisco. It offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating. With a range of around 300 miles, a Tesla Model S or Model 3 would be great options for this trip.

Yosemite National Park

This iconic national park is also around four hours from San Francisco and offers some of the most stunning natural views in the state. With electric car charging stations available at the park, a Tesla Model X or Model Y are satisfying and convenient ways to explore this world-renowned natural attraction.

Santa Cruz

This coastal town is just an hour and a half from San Francisco. Known for its laid-back, surfer-town vibe, it has plenty of beaches and state parks you can explore. Consider bringing along a Tesla Model 3 if you’re traveling as a couple or a Model S if you’re going with a small group.