Google has introduced a new feature for electric vehicle (EV) drivers using Android Auto, allowing real-time battery tracking and information display on Google Maps. Accessible on EVs equipped with Android Auto, the feature wirelessly communicates with the vehicle display, providing real-time battery details on Google Maps. Unlike some in-car navigation systems, Android Auto displays Google Maps, offering estimated battery levels upon arrival at a destination, suggesting charging stops, and providing charging duration estimates. The rollout of this Android Auto feature will commence in the coming months on the Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, with additional EV brands following suit.
Google also enhanced its built-in automotive services product, embedded directly into vehicles with the Android Automotive operating system. This system, featuring Google apps and services like Google Assistant and Google Maps, is gaining popularity among automakers. Polestar and Volvo were early adopters, with Nissan, Ford, and Lincoln incorporating Google built-in this year. The latest updates include the ability for drivers to send planned trips from Google Maps on their smartphones to the car. Additionally, Google is introducing the Chrome browser in select Polestar and Volvo cars for use when the vehicle is stationary, particularly during EV charging. Cars with Google built-in will also receive PBS KIDS, Crunchyroll, and the Weather Channel app.
