Waze has released a new update which allows electric vehicle (EV) drivers to search for chargers along their route.
EV drivers can input their vehicle information into the app including their preferred plug type.
When a route is set, drivers will have the option to select EV charging via a button from the route option display screen.
A set of options will appear along the driver’s route.
Within the app, each station will display the plug types, how many plugs are at the site, charging speeds, and hours of operation for drivers.
Additional instructions on how to locate the chargers are also provided.
In a statement from Waze, the software claims to include up-to-date information about the charging stations based on Waze Community feedback.
“Charging station information is often inconsistent, outdated or unreliable, creating a major pain point for EV drivers,” said Waze.
“You can rest assured Waze will help you find a charging station along the way.”
A spokesperson from Waze has confirmed the new update will be a permanent feature within the app.
The update is still to be launched across the world, but reportedly there are still some issues to be resolved before its global launch.
Electrek reports the app, for one EV owner at least, still displayed petrol station information and didn’t allow them to enter a plug type.
Waze isn’t the only app under the Google umbrella to get new EV-focused functionality.
Google recently announced new EV features for Google Maps on vehicles equipped with Android Automotive, such as the Volvo C40 and XC40 Recharge and Polestar 2, that suggests the “best stop” for charging based on your charge level, expected energy consumption and current traffic.
It also allows you to search specifically for “very fast” chargers, capable of 150kW or higher, and displays whether locations have charging stations on site.
