There is nothing quite like the feeling of the open road, especially when that road winds along one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. If you are planning a Great Ocean Road EV road trip, you are in for an absolute treat. The gentle hum of an electric motor perfectly complements the crashing waves of the Southern Ocean and the tranquil rustle of the Otway rainforests.
As Australia’s charging infrastructure continues to expand rapidly, exploring Victoria’s iconic coastal route in an electric vehicle has never been more accessible or enjoyable. Whether you are a seasoned EV owner or someone looking to test drive a Tesla for the first time, this journey offers the perfect blend of breathtaking scenery and sustainable travel.
With rising fuel prices driving record EV sales, more Australians are discovering the joy of emission-free holidays. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make your Great Ocean Road EV road trip an unforgettable adventure.
Why Choose an EV for the Great Ocean Road?
The Great Ocean Road stretches for 243 kilometres from Torquay to Allansford, offering a mesmerising display of limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush national parks. Experiencing this natural wonder in an electric vehicle elevates the journey to a whole new level.
Without the noise and vibration of a combustion engine, you feel more connected to the environment around you. You can hear the native birdlife as you glide through the Great Otway National Park and enjoy the crisp ocean breeze without the smell of exhaust fumes. Plus, knowing that your travel is leaving a lighter footprint on these pristine landscapes makes the experience even more rewarding.
If you are still on the fence about making the switch, taking an EV for a weekend getaway is the perfect way to experience the lifestyle. You might even find yourself dreaming about what the 2026 budget means for EV incentives by the time you return home!
Essential Stops on Your Great Ocean Road EV Road Trip
To make the most of your journey, we have organised a fantastic itinerary that balances scenic highlights with convenient charging locations.
1. Torquay: The Surfing Capital
Your Great Ocean Road EV road trip officially begins in Torquay. Famous for Bells Beach and its rich surfing heritage, it is the perfect place to grab a coffee and stretch your legs.
Charging Tip: Torquay is well-equipped for EVs. The RACV Resort features ultra-rapid Chargefox stations, allowing you to top up your battery quickly while you enjoy a walk along the esplanade. There are also new Origin 360 EV chargers coming online in the town centre.
2. Lorne and Apollo Bay: Coastal Charm
As you wind your way along the cliff edges, the towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay offer delightful spots to pause. Lorne is famous for its vibrant arts scene and the beautiful Erskine Falls. Further along, Apollo Bay provides a stunning backdrop of rolling green hills meeting the sea.
Charging Tip: Apollo Bay features a 50kW Evie fast charger, making it an ideal spot to plug in while you enjoy some local seafood for lunch. If you are staying overnight, many local accommodations now offer destination charging for guests.
3. The Great Otway National Park
Leaving the coast temporarily, the road turns inland through the ancient rainforests of the Otways. The towering mountain ash trees and lush fern gullies are spectacular. Take a detour to the Cape Otway Lightstation or enjoy the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk.
Charging Tip: Charging options are sparse within the national park itself, so ensure you have sufficient range before leaving Apollo Bay. This is where understanding your vehicle’s capabilities comes in handy — if you are new to this, our beginners guide to charging is a great resource.
4. The Twelve Apostles and Port Campbell
No Great Ocean Road EV road trip is complete without witnessing the majestic Twelve Apostles. These towering limestone stacks are best viewed at sunrise or sunset when the light paints them in brilliant shades of gold and orange.
Charging Tip: Port Campbell and nearby Warrnambool have reliable fast chargers. You can easily top up here before beginning your journey back to Melbourne or continuing further west.
Practical Tips for EV Travellers on the Great Ocean Road
Embarking on a road trip requires a little bit of planning, but it is incredibly straightforward once you know the basics. Here are our top tips for a seamless journey:
- Plan Your Stops: Use apps like PlugShare or Chargefox to map out your charging locations in advance. It is always wise to have a backup option in mind just in case a station is in use.
- Charge While You Rest: The secret to a great EV road trip is syncing your charging times with your natural breaks. Plug in while you are having lunch, exploring a town, or staying overnight at your accommodation.
- Don’t Let Range Anxiety Win: Modern EVs have fantastic range, and the charging network is growing every day. If you are feeling nervous, read our thoughts on why range anxiety is becoming a thing of the past.
- Bring Your Own Cable: While fast chargers have tethered cables, many destination chargers (like those at hotels or council car parks) require you to bring your own Type 2 cable. For a full rundown, check out our complete guide to EV charging cables and adaptors. Always keep one in the boot!
- Drive Efficiently: The winding nature of the Great Ocean Road naturally encourages a relaxed driving pace, which is excellent for your EV’s efficiency. Enjoy the regenerative braking as you navigate the hills and curves.
The Future of Electric Travel in Australia
The Great Ocean Road is just one example of how accessible electric travel has become in Australia. From the early days of the Cybertruck buzz in 2019 to the diverse range of family-friendly electric SUVs available today, the landscape has transformed remarkably. With so many incredible places to visit near Melbourne, an EV makes the perfect companion for exploring Victoria’s coastline and beyond.
Local councils along the Surf Coast and Great Ocean Road are actively investing in more public charging infrastructure, with new stations in Winchelsea, Aireys Inlet, and Anglesea all coming online in 2026. This ensures that this iconic route remains pristine and accessible for generations to come.
Ready for Your Next EV Road Trip Adventure?
There has never been a better time to experience the magic of a Great Ocean Road EV road trip. The combination of world-class scenery, quiet driving, and the satisfaction of sustainable travel makes for an unbeatable holiday.
If you don’t own an electric vehicle yet, don’t let that stop you! At evee, we connect you with passionate EV owners across Australia. You can rent a Tesla, Polestar, or BYD for your weekend getaway and experience the future of driving for yourself. If you are EV curious, there is no better way to try before you buy.
Your next adventure is electric. Head over to evee.com.au to find the perfect EV for your Great Ocean Road journey today!
