Google Maps is set to receive an upgrade that will greatly benefit electric vehicle (EV) owners. Through the use of artificial intelligence (AI), Google will provide real-time information about chargers on its Google Maps app for EV drivers. This includes details about the charger’s status, location, and the number of available plugs. Additionally, Google Maps will offer expected range estimates when drivers are using turn-by-turn directions, and it will suggest charging options based on the car’s battery level. Furthermore, users planning a trip can now filter hotels based on whether they provide EV charging facilities.
The rise in electric vehicle ownership has increased the demand for convenient and accessible charging solutions. Recognizing this trend, Google aims to cater to EV drivers who are constantly on the move or planning their journeys. In a blog post, a Google representative highlighted the need for more charging options due to the growing popularity of electric vehicles.
This move by Google reflects its ongoing efforts to incorporate AI into its products. While Google has long been regarded as a leader in AI, the unexpected success of OpenAI’s ChatGPT has prompted the company to further enhance its apps and services with AI features. As part of this strategy, Google has introduced various AI tools, including its Bard chatbot (later renamed Gemini) and Magic Editor for photos.
Google is expected to unveil even more AI products during its upcoming Google I/O developer conference, which starts on May 14. The company’s commitment to AI integration is evident in its announcement of AI-powered additions to Google Maps. These additions include summaries of customer reviews for EV chargers and the use of AI to help drivers locate chargers in less obvious places, such as inside garages or on the other side of parking lots. The company provided an example of directions that guide users towards underground parking lots and instruct them to turn right just before exiting.
Google also plans to encourage users to share their experiences with EV chargers, such as wait times and successful charging sessions. By gathering this data, Google aims to provide more comprehensive information to EV drivers and improve the overall charging experience.
The AI-powered features for Google Maps will initially be available for vehicles with Google’s built-in infotainment systems, including select Volvo and Polestar models. However, Google intends to roll out these features for free worldwide in the coming months. Additionally, Google has recently added EV-related features to its driving assistant app, Waze.
Given that EVs now account for approximately 7% of new car sales in the US and over 25% in California, it is expected that these new map features will be well-received by EV owners. The convenience and accessibility provided by Google Maps in locating charging stations will likely make it a popular tool among EV drivers.
For those without Google-powered infotainment systems, Google plans to incorporate some of these EV features into the mobile version of Google Maps. This ensures that a wider range of users can benefit from the AI-powered enhancements.
In conclusion, Google’s integration of AI into Google Maps brings significant advantages to electric vehicle owners. The real-time information about chargers, along with the ability to filter hotels based on charging facilities, will greatly enhance the convenience and planning capabilities for EV drivers. By leveraging AI technology, Google aims to address the growing demand for reliable and accessible charging solutions in a rapidly expanding electric vehicle market.
