Google Maps refines its EV experience with better charging station discoverability

What you need to know
Google Maps has begun rolling out a new “Charging Stations” filter that users can generate by selecting their vehicle type in settings.
Clicking on the filter will highlight charging stations in the user’s area, along with information such as addresses and charging speeds.
Google plans to roll out more EV-related features in the coming months.

Google is rolling out a new update to Maps to help smooth out the electric car experience for its drivers.

German publication Smartdroid has discovered a new filter for Google Maps that allows users to search for “charging stations” (via 9to5Google). To view this information, EV owners must jump to the Maps app settings and navigate to “Your Vehicle”. Selecting “Electric” under “Engine Type” will force the display of this new charging station filter.

Additionally, when the vehicle is selected, the new filter will replace the typical “gas” filter in the map.

The charging station filter will quickly put the user into a search in the map and start marking locations in their area. More importantly, a list will appear that allows the user to scroll through the charging stations. The list looks at the location’s address and the number of chargers available.

EV drivers will also be able to get information about charger speeds. A quick test shows that Google will indicate whether the station can charge “slowly,” “moderately,” “quickly,” or “very quickly. ” charging.

We’ve already noticed both changes in our internal testing, so more users should start to notice them throughout the day.

Google detailed ambitions to improve the electric car experience in Maps in April. The company said it plans to roll out accurate charging station information for drivers who may be low on energy. Google plans to detail charging speeds, plug types, and more. So far, we’ve seen charging speeds, so the rest will surely start to follow.