Google Maps Releases Update To Find Exact Location Of EV Chargers

Google Maps will soon receive updates to make it easier to locate EV chargers, plan ahead on road trips, and navigate to charging stations. The tech company notes that finding the exact location of an EV charger can be tricky. We’ve been there; tracking down a charger in an unfamiliar city, with the range inching closer to 0%, is never fun. Perhaps the following updates will encourage more people to purchase electric vehicles, following declining sales and popularity.

So, what can EV owners expect? For a start, finding concealed charging stations – such as those hidden in multistory parking lots – will be made a lot easier, thanks to AI-powered summaries that will be rolled out in Google Maps. These descriptions will provide specific details about the EV charger, such as “Enter the underground parking lot and follow the signs toward the exit. Just before exiting, turn right.”

Making Life Simpler For EV Owners

Google says this is done using the latest information from reviews about charging stations. Users will also be able to rate individual charging locations by sharing details about wait times, which charging plug (CCS, J1772, Tesla) was used, and other information about the experience. Theoretically, this could eliminate the risk of arriving at a charging station only to find it inoperative.

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Getting A Home Charger Ends The EV Ownership Nightmare

If you have a home charger, owning an EV goes from challenging to hassle-free.

But what about charger availability and charging speeds? Google Maps has thought about that, too. Information such as port availability and charging speed will be available to view on the in-car map, meaning drivers won’t waste precious range driving to a charger that is in use. This is similar to the update introduced to Rivian vehicles, helping owners avoid broken or subpar chargers. Importantly, this information will be displayed automatically when the state of charge reaches a certain level. Small convenience features like this will make owning an electric vehicle so much easier.

Taking An EV On A Road Trip Is Easier Than Ever Before

Embarking on a road trip with an EV can be a somewhat stressful affair, especially when it comes to planning charging stops. Google Maps will now suggest the best charging points for longer trips. The feature can recommend the best possible charging stops based on the trip, destination, and battery status. Finally, EV owners can even plan where they stay with the new EV filter on Google Travel, helping them find accommodation with onsite electric vehicle charging.

Google says these updates will roll out in the coming months. Vehicles with Google built-in (such as the Volvo EX90) will receive the update first. As American charging infrastructure expands, features like this will become even more important, especially as more consumers purchase battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Elsewhere, Google built-in has received several updates, with a new layout and more intuitive features.