QUICK SUMMARY
A new filter has been spotted in Google Maps' code that lets you search for only charging points that feature Plug and Charge technology. In a compatible vehicle, you no longer need to use an app or subscription card to charge up.
Driving an electric car is all the fun of being out on the open road without the guilt of 1. harming the planet and 2. spending ungodly amounts on fuel. While you won't have to bear the perils of the petrol station again, you will however experience a new kind of inconvenience at EV chargers.
One of the layers of faff however has been removed with the introduction of Plug and Charge stations. These power points don't need an app or charging subscription card to use, as the name suggests you can just plug in and charge and pay using the in-car systems.
So where does Google Maps come in? Well, as discovered by Android Authority the latest update to Google Maps for Android lets users filter for only chargers that have Plug and Charge capabilities. Particularly handy I would say, if your phone is dead or it's raining.
The only issue? Not all electric cars currently support Plug and Charge, although some vehicles from Audi, Porsche and Mercedez currently do.
Of course, this latest update won't magically manifest more chargers (with or without Plug and Charge) but it could be useful when planning longer journeys. Now let's hope it is adopted more widely. Google Maps currently only really has filters for chargers that are high speed (i.e. over 50kW) and to search by connector type, so any further information is appreciated. You wouldn't appreciate your diesel car being directed to a station that only had petrol pumps and the same logic applies here.
If you're thinking about an electric car, check out our guide to the best electric cars, the environment and your wallet might thank you. Of course, it's always going to be cheaper to charge at home, so investing in one of the best home EV chargers will pay for itself.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
Andy is T3's Tech Staff Writer, covering all things technology, including his biggest passions such as gaming, AI, phones, and basically anything cool and expensive he can get his hands on. If he had to save one possession from a fire it would be his PlayStation 5. He previously worked for Tom’s Guide - where he got paid to play with ChatGPT every day. When it comes to streaming, Andy will have his headphones glued in whilst watching something that will make him laugh. He studied Creative Writing at university, but also enjoys supporting his favourite football team (Liverpool), watching F1, teaching himself guitar, and spending time with his dog.
-
Pilates teacher shares a 10-minute bodyweight workout that will improve full-body strength and boost energy
Move your body, feel better
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra dummy unit proves it's what's inside that really counts
It looks like the Galaxy S25 Ultra isn’t going to change all that much – or is it?
By Chris Hall Published
-
Google Maps on Android Auto set to get a boost – but for now, there's a catch
There are some really neat features on offer
By Sam Cross Published
-
This Google Maps update for EV owners is subtle but still a welcome boost
It looks set to make road trips in an electric vehicle even smoother
By Sam Cross Published
-
Android Auto is getting great free Google Maps upgrade
It should make it easier than ever to use your in-car navigation system
By Sam Cross Published
-
EV owners could get a sweet free upgrade thanks to Android Auto
Electric vehicle users are getting more personalisation options than ever before
By Sam Cross Published
-
Millions of Volvo drivers just got a great free upgrade to rival Google Maps
Waze is coming to Volvo cars with built-in Google systems to make navigation even easier
By Mike Lowe Published
-
GM is killing off Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in its next EVs
GM's 2024 EVs are going their own way when it comes to in-car entertainment
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
A key Google Maps bug fix has just arrived for Android Auto
The company is rolling out a fix for the dreaded ‘GPS signal lost’ error
By Alistair Charlton Published
-
Android Auto's big CarPlay-inspired updates finally available for everyone
Announced in May 2022 and due in the summer, the big infotainment upgrade is finally here
By Alistair Charlton Published