These two Google Maps tricks make driving an electric car easier

More and more electric cars are appearing on Dutch roads. This brings with it all sorts of difficulties and clumsiness. Luckily, the experts at Google are helping you a little by adding new features to Maps.

It is estimated that 1 billion people use the navigation tool every day. Since the software is popular, one of the major technology companies has a large budget to continuously improve the app.

Google Maps is adding features for EV drivers

For example, Google Maps helped its users last September by adding a fuel-saving feature. Now owners of electric cars are asking for more help with their means of transport.

The map already shows EV chargers with the corresponding number of kW. Now you can also filter by fast chargers. Additionally, users can specify which charging port they have, such as Chademo, Tesla, and CCS. You can even select a socket in the app. So you always get the right charger.

In addition to the charging station function, EV drivers can now also enter into Google Maps which car they are driving: an electric vehicle, a diesel, a hybrid or a car with a petrol engine. With this information, the navigation software can better determine the most efficient or quickest route.

How to activate the functions?

How do you search Google Maps for the right charging station with the right charging capacity? Very easy. You type “charging stations”, “charging stations” or something similar into your search bar. Then click on “All plugs” and you can select your plug. If you want to filter by charge capacity, click Fast Charge.

Would you like to specify which car you drive? Then you have to click on a route and before starting click on the three dots at the top right. Select “Options” and change the “Motor type”. This Google Maps menu also lets you choose if you want a fuel-efficient route.