Google Maps Introduces AI Tech to Improve EV Charging Location Searches

Google Maps will now leverage AI to enhance the search for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. In a blog post on April 17, Google announced that Google Maps will use AI to summarize reviews of EV chargers, providing precise directions to hidden stations, even in parking garages or other inconspicuous locations.

Google stated that the information about charging stations is made possible by the millions of reviews posted daily on Google Maps. Once an EV station is used as a result of the Maps AI location tech, new prompts will ask for additional details about the charging experience, such as the type of plug used and the waiting time, to further improve the capability.

According to Google, in the coming months, users will be able to find nearby chargers on the in-car map, including details like real-time port availability and charging speed. This update will be available globally, starting with vehicles equipped with Google built-in.

Google says that the upcoming update will also simplify complex trips by suggesting the best charging locations for vehicles with Google built-in. This capability, initially announced last year for single-stop trips, is now expanding to multi-stop journeys.

The Verge reports that Google has previously emphasized its use of AI to enhance the experience for electric vehicle (EV) owners. In 2021, the company deployed AI tools for route planning and locating EV plugs.

EV owners will now be able to see quick and helpful information about charging when their vehicle’s battery starts to get low. Real-time plug availability and charging speeds will be viewable on native versions of Google Maps in cars with the company’s built-in software, like some existing Volvo and Polestar models. These cars are also getting native versions of Google Maps that suggest charging breaks on multi-stop journeys.

In addition, Google’s Travel Services now includes a filter to find hotels that offer onsite EV charging to help eliminate unnecessary charging stops on road trips.