Google Maps Powers EV Charging Plans

Electric vehicle owners in the US can now benefit from an AI-powered update to Google Maps, enhancing long-distance route planning through Android Auto. unveiled on Monday, this software enhancement automatically suggests charging stops for electric vehicles during longer trips.

The system provides more accurate arrival time and state-of-charge estimates, leveraging an AI routing algorithm that predicts charging durations. This feature is compatible with electric cars from 16 different automakers, covering over 350 models and trim levels available in the United States.

Users can activate this feature by setting their vehicle type to 'Electric' in the Google Maps app settings and providing details like make, model, and plug type. When planning a route via Android Auto, version 25.44 and later will display estimated battery usage, recommended charging locations, and arrival battery percentages.

While most vehicles with phone-based Android Auto cannot automatically pull live battery data, users will be prompted to input their current battery percentage. Google Maps then uses this input along with vehicle specifics, traffic, elevation, and weather data for its AI predictions.

This development promises to boost convenience and alleviate range anxiety, particularly for owners of older electric vehicles that lack sophisticated onboard route planning software, making EV road trips more accessible and less stressful.