The bags are packed, the playlist is ready, and the summer sun is finally beaming across the East Coast. If you’re one of the thousands of Australians who transitioned to an electric vehicle this year, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and that familiar “range anxiety” as you plan your first major holiday road trip.

But here is the truth for December 2025: The “Electric Highway” isn’t a future promise anymore—it’s here.

In the first half of 2025 alone, Australia added over 1,200 new fast-charging sites, nearly doubling our infrastructure in record time. Whether you’re piloting a Tesla, a sleek new BYD Seal, or a family-ready Kia EV9, the days of hunting for a functioning socket in the back of a caravan park are behind us.

At EV Evolution, we’ve mapped out the best routes for your Christmas and New Year break. These aren’t just scenic drives; they are “Gold Standard” EV corridors equipped with the latest ultra-rapid hubs.

1. The Grand Pacific Drive (NSW)

Route: Sydney to Wollongong, Kiama, and the Shoalhaven.

The Vibe: Cliff-hugging bridges and seaside villages.

If you only have a few days, the Grand Pacific Drive is the ultimate EV showcase. Starting just south of Sydney, you’ll glide over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge.

Why it’s EV-Friendly in 2025:

The South Coast has benefited from a massive infrastructure injection this year. Shoalhaven alone has seen 19 new high-powered charging ports installed in late 2025.

• The Stop: Drop into Berry for a famous sourdough donut while you top up at the Silos Estate. They offer super-fast charging right on the vineyard.
• Pro Tip: Use the new Charge@Large app (launched Oct 2025) to see real-time status of the hubs in Wollongong and Shellharbour before you leave the Royal National Park.

2. The Great Ocean Road (VIC)

Route: Torquay to Warrnambool.

The Vibe: Limestone stacks, rainforests, and wild Southern Ocean views.

Victoria’s most famous drive carries a mythic weight, and in 2025, it’s finally fully electrified. The Surf Coast Shire completed a major charging overhaul in June, meaning you can now find dual-port 50kW fast chargers in Lorne, Aireys Inlet, and Anglesea.

Why it’s EV-Friendly in 2025:

• Ultra-Rapid Hubs: For those in a hurry to reach the Twelve Apostles, new ultra-rapid hubs in Winchelsea act as the perfect inland gateway.
• Holiday Note: Be aware that road works on Princetown Road are pausing for the Christmas break on December 19, so you’ll have a smoother run through the pavement rehabilitation zones during the peak festive week.

3. The Legendary Pacific Coast (Sydney to Gold Coast)

Route: The M1/A1 Corridor.

The Vibe: The quintessential Aussie summer pilgrimage.

This is the busiest road in Australia during December, but for EV drivers, it’s now the most reliable. The “charging gap” that used to exist between Coffs Harbour and the border has been completely filled.

The “Must-Stop” Location:

You cannot miss the New Italy Tesla Supercharger. It was officially named the “Australian EV Charging Station of the Year 2025” by AEVA. Even if you don’t drive a Tesla, this site is open to all CCS-compatible EVs. It features pull-through bays for those towing trailers or boats—a rarity in the charging world—and the local café serves what many call the best Bolognese on the highway.

4. The Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive

Route: Through the Sapphire Coast and Gippsland.

The Vibe: Quiet beaches, turquoise waters, and eco-luxury.

If the M1 feels too hectic, head south. This route is for the EV owner who wants to pair their drive with sustainable stays.

EV Evolution Highlight:

Stop at Bangalay Luxury Villas in Shoalhaven Heads. They were designed with sustainability at their core and offer on-site charging for guests. Further south, the Seahorse Inn at Twofold Bay (Eden) now offers free Type 2 charging for diners and overnight stays, making it the perfect final “top-up” before you cross the Victorian border.

5. The Kosciuszko Alpine Way (NSW)

Route: Canberra to Jindabyne and Thredbo.

The Vibe: Fresh mountain air and crystal-clear lakes.

While most people think of the Snowies for winter, December is prime time for mountain biking and hiking.

Why it’s EV-Friendly in 2025:

The Snowy Mountains have seen a dedicated rollout of “Destination Charging” grants. You’ll find fast chargers at visitor centres and supermarkets throughout Tweed to Tumut. The descent from the peaks also provides a fantastic opportunity to see your “Regenerative Braking” in action—you’ll likely arrive at the bottom of the mountain with more range than you had at the top!

Summer Driving Tips for 2025

Before you head out, remember that an Australian December is tough on batteries.

• Pre-condition while plugged in: If it’s a 35°C day, use your app to cool the cabin while the car is still on shore power. It saves your battery for the road.
• The “80% Rule”: During the festive rush, please be a “Charging Champion.” Once your EV hits 80%, charging speeds drop significantly. Unplug and head off to let the next traveler in the queue get their holiday started.
• Peak Times: Expect queues at major hubs like Kempsey or Port Macquarie between 10 AM and 2 PM. Try to “Splash and Dash” early in the morning or later in the evening.

🤖 Plan Your Perfect Trip with EV Evolution

Planning a road trip involves a lot of moving parts—especially when you’re calculating charging stops against your car’s real-world highway range.

Why spend hours on Google when you can get an instant, expert itinerary?

Our EV Evolution AI-Powered Chatbot has been fed the latest December 2025 infrastructure data. Whether you’re worried about the hills in the Otways or looking for the best kid-friendly charging stop near Byron Bay, the AI has the answers.

Ask our AI chatbot anything about Australian road trips, such as:

“What is the best EV road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide for the 2025 holidays?”

“Where are the ultra-rapid chargers located on the Grand Pacific Drive?”

“Can I tow a caravan with a Kia EV9 from Sydney to the Gold Coast?”

Click the chat icon in the bottom corner to start your conversation. Let’s make this festive season your smoothest, quietest, and most sustainable road trip yet.

Safe travels and Happy Holidays!

About EV Evolution

EV Evolution is the leading online platform dedicated to Australian electric vehicle owners and enthusiasts. We foster a vibrant community, delivering essential EV news and insights, and enhancing user engagement through our innovative, AI-powered chatbot for dynamic discussions. Our mission is to empower Australian electric vehicle owners and enthusiasts by fostering a vibrant, AI-driven online community that connects, informs, and advances the nation’s electric vehicle landscape.