Subj : Google Maps could soon help you find convenient EV charging stati
To   : All
From : TechnologyDaily
Date : Mon Feb 19 2024 13:15:05

Google Maps could soon help you find convenient EV charging stations

Date:
Mon, 19 Feb 2024 13:11:19 +0000

Description:
A new update to Google Maps on Android appears to indicate the ability to 
filter EV charging outlets for those that offer convenient Plug and Charge 
service.

FULL STORY
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A recent update to the Google Maps app for Android appears to have added the 
ability to filter EV charging stations to show those that are compatible with 
the Plug and Charge service. 

In certain electric models, Plug and Charge allows users to simply pull up, 
plug in to the outlet and allow the vehicle's infotainment system deal with 
payments, so theres no need to tap an RFID card, open an additional app or 
swipe a bank card. 

In some cases, the car doesn't even require a data connection, with the 
certification digitally stored within the vehicle's computer system. 

Currently, only certain electric vehicles are compatible with Plug and 
Charge, with manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Genesis, Porsche and 
the Volkswagen Group offering the capability on a number of models. 

According WCCFtech , the information was discovered in the code for Version 
111.15.103 of the Google Maps app for Android, which is the operating system 
many modern EV makers have turned to for infotainment duties. 

As of today, the Google Maps EV filter isnt particularly thorough, especially 
when used on iOS devices. Options include the ability to add various 
connector types and filter for fast charge, which includes any outlet above 
50kW - not exactly speedy in these days of ultra-rapid 350kW outlets. 

But Google introducing this additional feature is another step towards 
simplifying the EV ownership experience. Something that still requires 
drastic action. Navigating the EV charging labyrinth (Image credit: 
Shutterstock) 

Seeing as many modern automakers are relying on Android Automotive to power 
modern infotainment systems, its only natural that Google Maps will be the 
navigational software of choice going forward. 

But although Google has been at the forefront of including everything from 
local businesses, to restaurants and highly recommended coffee shops in its 
mapping, it has been a little slow on the EV services. 

Apps like Zapmap and PlugShare have been adopted by many early EV owners, as 
they provide live information on the status of charging outlets, as well as 
customer reviews on the quality of recent experiences. 

Whats more, the ability to filter by outlet speed, payment types and network 
providers mean users can navigate to the exact charger they need. 

Despite efforts to try and consolidate the EV charging experience, it still 
feels like a very disparateprocess. 

Some outlets work with certain RFID-based membership cards, while others 
dont. Some allow for contactless pay, while others dont. Some even require 
the download of a bespoke app, which is just a pain. 

It might seem glaringly obvious, but the EV ownership experience needs to be 
as simple as filling up with fossil fuels, which to this day is still faster 
and more convenient in every way. you might also like Chrysler announces a 
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Link to news story:
https://www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/hybrid-electric-vehicles/google-maps-co
uld-soon-help-you-find-convenient-ev-charging-stations


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