Google Maps is getting an upgrade that aims to assist electric vehicle (EV) owners with charging their cars more conveniently. The tech giant is utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to provide real-time details about chargers on its Google Maps app. EV drivers will now be able to see information about the charger’s status, location, and the number of available plugs as they travel. Additionally, Google Maps will offer expected range calculations when drivers use turn-by-turn directions and suggest charging options based on the car’s battery level. Furthermore, users can now filter hotels that have EV charging options when planning a trip.
The rise in electric vehicle ownership has led to an increased demand for accessible charging solutions. In response to this trend, Google is incorporating AI features into its products, including Google Maps. In recent years, the company has been striving to integrate AI capabilities into its apps and services. This includes the introduction of its Bard chatbot, now known as Gemini, and features like the Magic Editor for photos that allow users to unblur images and remove unwanted objects.
Google is expected to announce more AI products during its Google I/O developer conference in May. The company’s AI enhancements for Google Maps will enable features such as summaries of customer reviews for individual EV chargers. The use of AI will also help drivers locate chargers in less obvious locations, like inside garages or on the other side of parking lots. For instance, Google Maps may provide directions like “Enter the underground parking lot and follow the signs toward the exit. Just before exiting, turn right.” Additionally, Google plans to encourage users to share their experiences, including wait times and successful charging sessions.
Google will roll out these AI-powered features for free worldwide in the coming months, initially targeting vehicles with Google-built infotainment systems. This includes certain models from Volvo and Polestar. Last month, Google introduced EV-related features to its driving assistant app, Waze.
With EVs accounting for approximately 7% of new car sales in the US and over 25% in California, it is expected that these new map features will gain popularity among EV owners. Google Maps’ EV-specific capabilities will be automated for many EV models that have the specialized “Built-In” version of the app integrated into their infotainment systems. This allows the app to monitor the car’s charging status and speed, among other details. For those without Google-powered infotainment systems, the company plans to introduce EV features to its mobile version of Google Maps in the coming months.
In conclusion, Google is leveraging AI to enhance its Google Maps app and provide EV owners with valuable information about chargers and convenient charging locations. With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, these AI-powered features will be instrumental in enabling a seamless charging experience for drivers.
