Dear electric vehicle owners, are you tired of range anxiety? Fear no more! Google Maps is about to become your ultimate electric road trip companion. It is introducing a game-changing new feature on Google Maps: real-time EV battery level display. Buckle up, because this article will electrify your understanding of how this new update transforms navigation for the EV era.
How to Use Google Maps to Display EV Battery Levels
Google Maps announced at CES 2024 that real-time battery information will be integrated into compatible electric vehicles. Google Maps not only shows the battery level but it also displays the following data:
- Predict your battery level on reaching the destination, so you know exactly when to recharge
- Suggest optimal charging stations along your route, ensuring you never get stranded. To do so, just tap on Add charging stop.
- Estimate charging time at each station, helping you plan your stoppages like a pro
Also, you can choose a charging station with compatible plugs and apply various filters such as charger types, payment networks, and charging speeds.
This feature is currently rolling out to Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning vehicles with Android Auto. We can expect for more brands and models in the coming months. This feature gets integrated into your Android Auto once it has been rolled out officially.
Note: There is no official news regarding regions where this Google Maps to display EV battery levels feature is rolling out. It is not available in all languages.
Also Read: How to Find Nearest Gas Station on Google Maps
How to Get Chrome Browser Android for Cars
Now, Chrome is about to be rolled out in selected cars like Volvo and Polestar with Google built-in. This feature allows you to do online shopping while waiting for someone. Ans obviously, you cannot use the Chrome browser when your car is in motion. This is still in the beta stage and is yet to be released for a wider audience.
How to Use Trip Planning Feature on Android Auto
Using the trip planning feature on Android Auto is as simple as a walk in the park. All you have to do is search for the destination and tap on Send to car on your smartphone. Now, you can find the route on your Android Auto. Also, you can share your trip plans with your family to keep track of the journey.
If you have planned your trip and pre-booked your reservation at any restaurant, Google Maps notifies you about the reservation so that you won’t miss out. This feature is officially releasing on Polestar 2.
Other New/Additional Features Rolling Out for Android Auto
Apart from the above-mentioned features, a few more are rolled out or about to be released:
You can watch kids’ shows from PBS KIDS and Crunchyroll in selected cars with Google built-in. This can help your kids keep entertained during long travel or you can watch it when waiting to pick up someone.
After a huge demand from users, the Weather Channel has been released on Android Auto. It provides hourly forecasts, follow-ups, alerts, and Trip View radar.
Not just this, you can use the Home Assistant app on Android Auto to open or close the garage door. You can also attend any important office calls while driving without closing maps through the split-screen feature.
Also Read: How to Get Google Maps Quickest Route with Multiple Destinations
What are the Expected Updates to be Rolled Out in the Future?
Google Maps is releasing new updates frequently to improve user experience. As many car brands are offering built-in Google, Google is partnering with many developers to develop helpful apps. The next feature that is about to be released is the digital car key. It will be rolling out to selected cars like Volvo soon and supported phones.
You can use this digital car key to unlock, lock, and start your car using supported Android phones. Also, you can share keys with friends and family on supported iOS or Android phones securely. We can expect this feature in more car brands in the future.
We hope this article was helpful and you now know how to use Google Maps to display EV battery levels on your vehicle. Stay tuned to Techcult for more recent updates!
