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EV Driver Spotlight
Roy Joseph
❄️ Where in the region do you live?
I’m based in the Chicagoland / Northwest Indiana area, and I commute between Chicago and Valparaiso on a daily basis.
❄️ What is the make, model, and year of your car?
I drive a 2023 Volkswagen ID.4
❄️ How long have you been driving an EV?
I’ve been driving an EV for about 9 months.
❄️ What is your typical charging method? (home, public, etc.)
I mostly use public charging since I’m commuting often, and I don't have a home charger. I use charging networks along my routes and rely solely on GOEVIN when I’m in Northwest Indiana.
❄️ How does your EV's range affect your driving habits?
Day-to-day, it doesn’t limit me much, but I’m more intentional about charging during natural stops (errands, meals, gym, etc.). On busy travel days, I’ll plan a bit more and charge to 100% before I leave.
❄️ Do you experience range anxiety? If so, how do you manage it?
Very rarely, but when I do, it's because I allow my range to drop below 5%, which can cause range anxiety. I don't experience range anxiety often because charging stations around where I live / work are within a five-mile radius, and I'm sure I'll reach one easily. The battery has been very consistent.
❄️ Do you find charging your EV at home to be cost-effective?
I don’t rely on home charging much right now due to my routine, but in general, I believe home charging is usually the most cost-effective option when it’s available and convenient.
❄️ Have you used GOEVIN charging stations before? If so, what has your experience been?
Yes. I’ve used GOEVIN charging stations quite frequently, and the experience has been quite positive overall; it’s been a reliable option for me, especially because I travel the Chicago ↔ Valparaiso corridor frequently. These stations are the best; they're clean and deliver power efficiently.
❄️ Do you have any tips or advice for those considering buying an EV?
- Think about your real driving routine (commute + errands), not just road trips. You cannot consider this in the same way you would for a regular ICE car, so be prepared to accommodate the changes. Unless you have a home charger...that changes the equation completely. If you can, set up home charging—it’s the biggest quality-of-life upgrade.
- Learn your “go-to” charging locations near home/work early.
- Expect some friction with apps/networks/pricing, but it gets easy fast.
- In Chicago / NW Indiana, chargers can be hidden in lots, not marked with clear signage, and have price uncertainty; having a couple of backup options reduces stress.
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