There is a specific kind of “controlled chaos” that occurs exactly three hours before a family road trip to the in-laws. It’s the sound of a roof box being snapped shut, the frantic search for a specific iPad charger, and the inevitable realization that the dog, the three kids, and the industrial-sized box of Christmas presents don’t actually fit into the car at the same time.

For years, the “family road trip” was the final boss for electric vehicles. But as we roll into 2026, the game has changed. At EV Evolution, we’re seeing a new generation of 7-seater SUVs that don’t just “handle” the family trip—they actually make it survivable.

If you’re planning your next escape in a new EV, here is your guide to surviving the load-out, the drive, and the inevitable “Are we there yet?”

The 7-Seat Revolution: Space for Everyone (Even the Outlaws)

For a long time, if you wanted seven seats in an EV in Australia, your options were “expensive” or “very expensive.” In 2025 and 2026, that barrier has been well and truly smashed.

The Heavy Hitters of 2026:

• The Kia EV9: Now a veteran of the Aussie roads, the EV9 remains the gold standard for space. With its “swivel” second-row seats and a massive 333L of boot space even with the third row up, it’s the closest thing to a lounge room on wheels.
• The Hyundai Ioniq 9: Hyundai’s newest flagship is the “space king.” It features a 110.3 kWh battery and a wheelbase longer than many luxury limos. What we love at EV Evolution is the “Universal Island”—a sliding console that moves between the front and second rows, perfect for passing snacks to the kids without a mid-highway reach-around.
• The BYD Sealion 8: Arriving in early 2026, this is the disruptor. It’s a 7-seater that brings 359kW of power and a premium interior at a price point that will make traditional SUV owners do a double-take. With 270L of storage behind the third row, it’s proof you don’t need a bus to move a family.

Physics vs. Reality: Managing the “Full Car” Range

Let’s be intellectually honest: weight matters. At EV Evolution, we always tell our community that physics doesn’t take a holiday. If you load up seven passengers, a week’s worth of luggage, and a bike rack, your range will take a hit.

The “10% Rule”:

Data from real-world Australian testing shows that a “maxed-out” EV typically sees a 10% to 15% reduction in range compared to driving solo.

• Example: If your Ioniq 9 has a 600km WLTP range, expect closer to 510km when fully loaded for the trip to the in-laws.
• The Pro Tip: Keep your tire pressure at the “Loaded” specification found on your door pillar. Under-inflated tires are the silent killers of EV efficiency, especially when carrying an extra 400kg of humans and gear.

Storage Hacks: The “Frunk” and Beyond

One of the biggest “EV Wins” for families is the hidden storage. When you remove the internal combustion engine, you gain a “Frunk” (Front Trunk).

In models like the Kia EV9 or the BYD Sealion 7/8, the frunk is the perfect “Safe Zone.”

• The Dirty Stuff: Use the frunk for sandy beach towels or muddy boots so they don’t touch the interior carpet.
• The “Emergency” Bag: Keep your charging cables and first-aid kit here so you don’t have to dig through five layers of suitcases at a charging station in Gundagai.

Inside the Cabin:

The new Hyundai Ioniq 9 features an 18L sliding console and massive sub-floor storage. In 2026, storage isn’t just about volume; it’s about segmentation. Being able to hide the iPads, the wet wipes, and the “secret” stash of road-trip lollies in separate, dedicated bins is a sanity-saver.

Tech Sane-ity: V2L is the Real MVP

The “Trip to the In-Laws” usually involves a lot of screen time for the backseat passengers. In an old petrol car, you’re constantly juggling 12V adapters and blowing fuses.

In a 2026 EV, you have Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and high-output charging.

• USB-C Everywhere: The Ioniq 9 offers 100W USB-C ports in all three rows. That’s enough power to charge a MacBook Pro while the kids play Minecraft.
• The Coffee Hack: Using V2L, you can plug a standard Nespresso machine or a kettle into the car while parked at a rest stop. Skipping the 20-minute queue for a mediocre service-station coffee? That’s the real luxury of the EV life.

The Financial “Holiday Bonus”

If you’re taking the trip in a car you’ve novated-leased in January, you’re likely saving about $150 to $200 per week in tax and fuel.

Think of it this way: The money you didn’t spend on petrol for the 1,000km round trip to the in-laws is basically a “dinner on the house” at that nice restaurant your mother-in-law likes.

With the Federal Government’s FBT review closing in February 2026, locking in these 7-seaters now is the smartest financial move you can make for your family’s future travel budget.

Summary: The New Normal for Family Travel

Surviving the trip to the in-laws used to be about “endurance.” In 2026, it’s about experience.

The quietness of the electric motor reduces driver fatigue. The instant torque makes overtaking road trains on the Newell Highway safer. And the sheer space of the new 2025/26 SUV models means the kids aren’t literally sitting on each other’s laps.

At EV Evolution, we believe the “Best Family Car” isn’t just the one with the most seats—it’s the one that gives you back your time, your money, and your peace of mind.

🤖 Ask Our AI: Family EV Expert

Choosing a 7-seater is a massive decision. Will the BYD Sealion 8 fit in your specific garage? Is the Kia EV9 better at towing a camper trailer than the Ioniq 9?

Start a conversation with the EV Evolution AI chatbot! Our AI is trained on the latest Australian specs, local charging network maps, and towing capacities for the 2026 fleet.

Ask our AI chatbot anything about EVs in Australia 2026, such as:

• “Which 7-seater EV has the most boot space with all seats upright?”
• “What is the real-world range of a Kia EV9 when towing a 2-tonne caravan?”
• “Is the BYD Sealion 8 arriving in Australia as a PHEV or a full BEV?”
• “Can you compare the 3rd-row legroom of the Ioniq 9 and the Volvo EX90?”

Click the chat icon below to get instant answers. Let’s make your next family road trip the best one yet.

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.