Episode 13

Tom Buckton on EV Adventures, Planning, and Performance

2 13

Tom Buckton on EV Adventures, Planning, and Performance

EV Car Club member Tom Buckton is a retired U.S. Navy chief electronics technician and an EV enthusiast. Tom shares his experiences from a significant 2,500 mile trip in his Hyundai Ioniq 5, comparing it with his previous vehicle, the Bolt. He offers insights into planning long trips with EVs, the impact of weather on EV performance, and the advantages of electric over traditional gasoline vehicles. This episode is packed with valuable tips for EV owners and those considering making the switch, highlighting the ease of travel, charging accessibility, and dispelling common myths around EVs.

  • 01:06 Introducing Tom Buckton: A Journey from Navy to EV Enthusiast
  • 03:26 Tom's Transition to Electric Vehicles: From Bolt to Ioniq 5
  • 07:39 Mastering EV Road Trips: Tom's Planning Process and Experience
  • 10:32 Navigating Challenges and Embracing the EV Lifestyle
  • 15:11 Back on the Interstate: A Journey Begins
  • 15:31 Charging Challenges and Cold Weather Experiences
  • 16:27 Maximizing Charge and Social Encounters at Charging Stations
  • 18:40 Navigating Snow and the Benefits of Snow Mode
  • 20:12 Family Encounters and Efficiency Comparisons
  • 21:22 The Evolution of Charging Infrastructure
  • 23:36 Unexpected Efficiency and the Heat Pump Advantage
  • 27:15 Debunking Range Anxiety and Embracing EV Adventures
  • 28:36 Community Engagement and the EV Car Club


Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

A Better Route Planner: https://abetterrouteplanner.com/


MTE's Electric Vehicle Programs & Educational Resources


  • https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee


  • https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes


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