GeekWire reporter Lisa Stiffler faced unexpected challenges during a holiday drive from Seattle to Portland in her new electric Ford Mustang Mach-E. Smitten with her first EV, she was unprepared for the intricacies of charging infrastructure and trip planning. The journey turned into a comedy of errors, highlighted by getting trapped at a Tesla Supercharger.
Lisa Stiffler, a reporter for GeekWire, embarked on a family holiday road trip from Seattle to Portland in her newly acquired electric Ford Mustang Mach-E. Historically indifferent to the cars she owned, Stiffler found herself enchanted by the EV's performance and features. However, the excitement soon gave way to the realities of electric vehicle ownership.
The trip exposed her to the demands of EV charging infrastructure, which required meticulous planning she had not anticipated. A key mishap occurred when she became trapped at a Tesla Supercharger station, underscoring the potential pitfalls for newcomers to electric driving. This incident formed the centerpiece of her adventure, blending frustration with valuable insights.
Through the experience, Stiffler documented a series of comedic errors that tested her patience but ultimately enriched her understanding of EV travel. She shared lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of preparation for charging stops and route optimization. While the drive reaffirmed her affection for the Mustang Mach-E, it highlighted broader challenges in expanding EV adoption amid evolving infrastructure.
Stiffler's account serves as a relatable narrative for others transitioning to electric vehicles, offering practical advice drawn directly from her firsthand encounter.