Google continues to roll out features designed to make owning an EV easier and this time they’ve updated Maps.
Vehicles with Google built-in – such as those from GM, Renault, Polestar, and Volvo – will sport a handful of convenient new features including showing charging stations in search results. As an example, if you search for supermarkets, those with onsite charging stations would be noted in the results. This will allow owners to easily find stores where they can charge while they shop.
Speaking of charging stations, users will be able to filter search results to only show 150+ kW DC fast chargers. These significantly reduce recharging times and enable many EVs to get an 80% charge in less than 30 or 40 minutes.
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Lastly, “on any trip that’ll require a charging stop, Maps will suggest the best stop based on factors like current traffic, your charge level, and expected energy consumption.” This should make things easier on drivers and Google said users will be able to switch stations if desired.
The updates come at an interesting time as Google integration is becoming more common and will appear on Ford and Lincoln vehicles starting later this year. Google also revealed searches for “electric cars” reached an all-time high in 2022, and noted interest in EV charging stations has increased more than 60% compared to this time last year.
Putting EVs aside, Google Maps is also getting a handful of other useful updates. In particular, pedestrians and bicyclists will benefit from “glanceable directions” on their lock screen. This means they’ll be able to see upcoming turns without having to unlock their phone and reopen the app.
