Latest update of the most popular map app pays special attention to planning sustainable routes: Google Maps improves journeys with Improved suggestion for electric vehicle charging stations and promotes the use of travel with the lowest possible carbon footprint. With these changes, Google Maps highlights the characteristics of electric vehicles compared to combustion engines. And that’s not all: Google search also benefits from options to reduce the carbon footprint.
There is currently a particular rivalry between those who defend classic thermal engines and those who are committed to moving towards an electric car. Even if the two vehicles will transport us from one place to another at the controls of a steering wheel, It’s a world of difference between recharging the vehicle from an outlet and having to put gas in the tank.. Are you one of the seconds before the first? Well, Google Maps wants to move you to the green side.
Google Maps makes it easier to reduce our carbon footprint
Route planning in stages and proximity to a charging station. Google Images
With the popularization of electric vehicles or EVs, Google has included various tools in its mapping applications to make the task easier. travel without losing sight of the charging stations. And with the latest update, Google Maps is strengthening its electric commitment to tackle the biggest argument against electric vehicles: long-distance travel.
How many charging stations are available when traveling from one point to another? Google Maps already offered this information, it will now manage it more proactively thanks to its AI so that getting to the charging station will be child’s play. Or plug and charge…
As Google confirms on its blog, these are the changes that have marked the destiny of mobile applications, both Google Maps and Google Search:
- Google Maps AI will offer precise directions to charging stations. In addition to showing these stations on the map and taking them into account when planning routes, we will soon see precise instructions for how to park the electric car at the charging station. For example, if you need to go down to a parking lot or follow a specific intersection. Everything so that you don’t have to move around too much.
- Google Navigation will show nearby stations as well as available chargers and their speed. If you are driving, the nearest station will appear on the map with its occupancy rate. You can even see at what maximum power you can charge your electric car.
- Step-by-step route planning with charging station recommendation based on estimated battery level. To facilitate your transition to EV, Google Maps will allow you to plan long trips in parts, taking into account the best routes based on charging stations (planning a vacation for example). And it will give you information about the battery you will be discharging throughout these steps, all to make the argument “an electric car is not good for long trips” become meaningless.
- Alternatives to routes to reduce the impact of the carbon footprint. Google Flights will begin to offer eco-friendly alternatives when looking for ways to get from one point to another. Instead of driving, Maps will suggest you walk or take public transportation; provided that the distances are equivalent.
- Improved long-distance rail routes. Google search will suggest timetables and ticket prices when taking directions. It will also include timetables and fares for long-distance buses.
- Flight broadcasts and filtering to find tickets with the least impact. Google Search leverages Google Flights to improve flight planning by taking into account aircraft emissions.
All these new features will start reaching the Google Maps apps and Google Search starting today. They will be available in Europe and many other countries.
Cover image | Ivan Linares
More information | Google
In Xataka Android | Google Maps in expert mode: 23 tips and tricks to fully master the map application
