Best Electric Cars for Family Road Trips

There’s something timeless about a family road trip — the anticipation, the snacks, the games, and those impromptu singalongs. But in 2025, the family wagon of choice is no longer a diesel estate or seven-seater SUV. Instead, more families are packing their boot and hitting the road in electric vehicles (EVs).

Why? Because EVs are no longer just for eco-conscious city commuters. With improved battery technology, more spacious models, and a growing network of fast chargers across the UK and Europe, they’re now ideal for family travel too.

But which ones can handle long motorway stints, keep the kids entertained, and leave space for luggage without compromising comfort or range?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best electric cars for family road trips, combining practical advice with real-world examples. Whether you’re heading to the Scottish Highlands or crossing the Channel for a summer in Provence, we’ll help you find a family EV that makes the journey just as memorable as the destination.

Why EVs Are Ideal for Family Travel

Quiet, Smooth, and Comfortable

Electric motors offer whisper-quiet performance with no gear changes, making for a peaceful drive — especially useful when little ones nod off in the back.

Lower Running Costs

No more petrol bills. Most EV drivers spend far less on charging, especially when using home or off-peak public chargers. Over a 500-mile round trip, the savings can be significant.

Spacious Interiors

With no bulky engine or central tunnel, many EVs feature flat floors and roomy cabins — perfect for stretching out, installing car seats, or hiding holiday clutter.

Built-in Tech

From panoramic sunroofs to dual-screen infotainment and wireless device charging, modern family EVs offer tech that keeps everyone entertained and connected.

What Makes a Great Family Road Trip EV?

Before diving into the list, let’s define the essentials.

1. Long Range

Look for 250 miles or more on a single charge to avoid frequent stops.

2. Fast Charging Capability

Ideally 100kW+ DC charging support, allowing for top-ups in under 30 minutes.

3. Spacious Boot and Cabin

You’ll need room for suitcases, prams, snacks, sports gear, and maybe a dog or two.

4. Rear Seat Comfort

Flat floors, ISOFIX mounts, good headroom, and easy access matter — especially with kids in tow.

5. In-Car Features

USB ports, integrated navigation, streaming apps, adaptive cruise control, and rear-seat entertainment all enhance long drives.

Top Family EVs for Road Trips in 2025

Each model listed here offers a balance of range, comfort, practicality, and affordability — ideal for modern families on the move.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Why families love it: Retro-modern looks, fast charging, and an ultra-spacious interior.

• Range: Up to 315 miles
• Boot Space: 527 litres
• Charging Speed: 10–80% in under 18 minutes (350kW)
• Seating: Roomy rear seats, sliding centre console, flat floor

Best For: Stylish families who value space, comfort, and futuristic tech.

Skoda Enyaq iV

Why families love it: Affordable, practical, and built for comfort.

• Range: 330 miles (iV 80 model)
• Boot Space: 585 litres
• Charging Speed: Up to 135kW
• Extras: Optional family pack with sunshades, tablet holders, and rear USB-C ports

Best For: Budget-conscious families who want maximum practicality with a touch of flair.

Kia EV9

Why families love it: Seven seats, exceptional range, and premium comfort.

• Range: Up to 349 miles
• Boot Space: Up to 828 litres (with 5 seats)
• Charging Speed: 800V system, adds 150 miles in 15 minutes
• Features: Rotating second-row seats, optional recliners, advanced driver assistance

Best For: Large or growing families needing maximum space and ultra-modern amenities.

Tesla Model Y Long Range

Why families love it: Range, Supercharger access, and minimalist tech.

• Range: 331 miles
• Boot Space: 854 litres (including front boot)
• Charging Speed: Up to 250kW (via Tesla Superchargers)
• Extras: Full self-driving (optional), Netflix in-car, dog mode

Best For: Tech-savvy families who want to simplify road trip logistics with a premium touch.

Volvo EX90 (2025 release)

Why families love it: Scandinavian luxury with family-first features.

• Range: Estimated 360 miles
• Boot Space: Approx. 655 litres (5-seat mode)
• Safety: Interior radar monitors children and pets left behind, LIDAR-based driver assistance

Best For: Safety-conscious families who want a serene, luxurious journey.

Mercedes EQB

Why families love it: Premium compact SUV with optional seven seats.

• Range: Up to 257 miles
• Boot Space: 495 litres (5-seater mode)
• Charging Speed: 100kW DC
• Features: Voice assistant, mood lighting, MBUX infotainment

Best For: Urban families looking for compact convenience and three rows of seats.

Honourable Mentions

Ford Mustang Mach-E

• Fast charging and engaging drive
• Family-friendly tech and up to 379-mile range (Extended battery)

MG ZS EV

• Budget-friendly with 273-mile range
• Excellent value for smaller families

Peugeot e-3008 (2025)

• New mid-size SUV with striking design
• Promises 435 miles of range (with Long Range battery)

How to Plan a Family EV Road Trip

Electric road trips just require a bit of forethought. Here’s how to make yours seamless:

Plan Charging Stops

Use apps like Zap-Map (UK), PlugShare, or A Better Routeplanner to map high-speed chargers along your route.

Pack Smart

Include a Type 2 cable, charging card, snacks, a first aid kit, and in-car chargers.

Use Regenerative Braking

Activate regen to preserve battery life on hilly or stop-start sections of your trip.

Keep the Kids Entertained

Download content in advance, use built-in screens if available, and consider travel trays or lap desks for games and colouring.

Monitor Your Range Mindfully

Aim to stop with 15–20% battery remaining, not zero. Charging from 10% to 80% is fastest on most EVs.

Real-World Story: The Patel Family’s Scottish Escape

Last summer, the Patels — a family of five from Manchester — drove their Kia EV6 to the Scottish Highlands. With a range of around 320 miles and fast charging access at service stations, they covered over 1,100 miles in a week without issue.

“We only needed three charging stops the whole trip, each one under 30 minutes. The kids watched Netflix while we had coffee. It felt easier than when we used to stop for petrol and food separately,” said Ayesha Patel.

For them, the EV wasn’t just a smart choice — it was a better experience overall.

Drive Further, Smarter, and Greener

The idea that EVs aren’t suited to family adventures is officially outdated. From roomy interiors to quick charging and low noise levels, today’s family EVs are designed to handle long road trips with ease and style.

Choosing the right model depends on your budget, how far you plan to travel, and how many passengers (and pets) you’re bringing along. But rest assured — whether it’s the tech-forward Tesla Model Y, the stylish Hyundai Ioniq 5, or the spacious Kia EV9, there’s a long-range electric car ready to be your family’s next road trip hero.