📅 29th/30th August 2025 📍Kumul, China

From Kuqa to Turpan: Wonders on the Road

We set out from Kuqa early, gearing up for another long day on the road. Even as the morning unfolded, the drive was full of surprises. Sure, we passed the usual things—a food court busy with breakfast crowds, locals starting their day—but then something truly unexpected caught our eye: a baby, fast asleep in a basket dangling from a tree. The little one was completely at peace, undisturbed by the bustle of cars and trucks racing past. That image will stay with us for a while.

At every toll station, we had to present our special license plate—a custom job just for the trip. These pauses often caused a stir; after all, not many Europeans take their own car this far across China. The staff’s amused reactions set a light mood, and we became something of a traveling curiosity as we made our way east.

Things were also lively within our small mobile crew. There were four of us in the ID. Buzz: our cameraman, our experienced Chinese tour guide, and—for the section with uncertain charging infrastructure—an electrician in the passenger seat. The road climbed high, all the way to 3,000 meters, winding through massive wind farms where hundreds of turbines turned in perfect unison. Every time we stopped, our car drew more than a few stares. Sometimes it was just curious glances; sometimes strangers approached, eager to ask about our journey and our bright electric ride.

On the way, we even spotted trucks channeling Tesla vibes, parked on the roadside and looking almost futuristic. We kept a good pace, pushing toward Turpan—a city that’s famous as one of the lowest places on Earth, about 70 meters below sea level.

Pulling into Turpan, we found a local garage and set up with our trusty Stoida charger. The grid here delivered a hefty 30 kilowatts—more than enough for a full recharge over night.

Next stop: Goazhou!