The latest Apple iPhone update is providing a handy update for EV drivers. With iOS 15.4, Apple Maps in CarPlay mode is able to estimate the remaining battery charge on EV journeys as well as adding in the necessary charging stops for longer trips.
According to this Ford support document, once an iPhone is connected and CarPlay is enabled you access Apple Maps as normal. A pop-up will ask you if you want to get EV routes. You then need to add your vehicle to the Apple Maps app to provide the data connection. You can also choose to share the data with Apple if you wish.
Now when you plan a route, it will display the estimated battery charge on arrival next to the time of arrival. If you don't have enough charge in your EV's battery to reach the destination, the app will add charging stops along the route. It's not clear as yet if you set preferences for a minimum level of charge on arrival as you can in other EV route planning apps.
The functionality only works on newer Ford Mustang Mach-E models and the upcoming Ford F-150 Lightning at this time. However, I expect it will roll out to other manufacturers that offer CarPlay compatibility once their systems allow it. CarPlay needs access to vehicle data to estimate the charge levels, which is likely to require a vehicle OS update.
The lack of EV routing in Apple Maps is one thing that has held it back for EV drivers. While the native mapping in most EVs isn't as good as Google or Apple Maps, the ability to estimate charge and add charging stops makes them more useful. I hope we see more EV features in iOS 16, even providing battery planning from the phone for those looking to plan their trip in advance.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
As T3's Editor-in-Chief, Mat Gallagher has his finger on the pulse for the latest advances in technology. He has written about technology since 2003 and after stints in Beijing, Hong Kong and Chicago is now based in the UK. He’s a true lover of gadgets, but especially anything that involves cameras, Apple, electric cars, musical instruments or travel.
-
iPhone unlocking is coming to your Audi
Audi, Volvo and Polestar could be the next car brands to embrace Apple's wireless car keys
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
All-new Apple CarPlay could help create the dashboard of your dreams
We now know a lot more about next-gen Apple CarPlay due in cars in 2024
By Chris Hall Published
-
Apple teams with Porsche and Aston Martin for next-gen CarPlay experience
Apple will CarPlay a starring role in upcoming infotainment offerings
By Leon Poultney Published
-
Ford F-150 Lightning drivers are getting an Apple Maps EV routing upgrade soon
The iconic pickup is getting a big boost which will be of benefit to electric vehicle users
By Sam Cross Published
-
This free app can save you £100s when you charge your electric car
The Tado Smart Charging app helps you schedule home EV top-ups for times when it's cheaper
By Rik Henderson Published
-
Tesla owners just got a useful free iPhone upgrade
Controlling your car with Siri or your iPhone just got even easier
By Sam Cross Published
-
Tesla owners could get a massive iPhone upgrade soon
It's not the Apple software we wanted, but it might just be the next best thing
By Sam Cross Published
-
Apple Car could have a killer sound system, patents suggest
The Apple Car could take inspiration from other Apple devices like the iPhone and the Vision Pro headset
By Sam Cross Published