Day 59: Kuqa, China
Departing Early from Kaxgar
The team departed Kaxgar just after 6 a.m., heading east as the sun rose behind the mountains. The highway out of the city was exceptionally smooth and wide, offering a clear and comfortable route through the early hours. The mountains remained a constant presence on the horizon, providing a dramatic backdrop for the day’s first stretch.
On the Road to Aksu
While the views remained impressive, the route had a long, steady rhythm. Frequent roadside signs reminded drivers to stay alert, often humorously phrased but increasingly relevant as the hours passed. Massive car haulers, far longer than anything typically seen in Europe, shared the road — moving silently but with purpose, like oversized land vessels.
A mid-day stop in Aksu included a visit to a local Volkswagen dealership. Using the mobile charging setup, the team recharged the ID. Buzz, drawing attention from the garage staff. The tour’s story continues to spark interest wherever the vehicle stops, with team members sharing the journey and answering questions about the EV’s performance across continents.
Arrival in Kuqa
As evening approached, the team returned to the highway and made their way toward Kuqa. A simple roadside dinner along the way was a welcome break after the long drive. The day closed with an evening arrival at the hotel — tired, but on schedule and fully charged.
Next stop: Turpan.
