Android Auto streamlines your experience if you drive an electric vehicle. The beta version 15.7.654604 introduces new filters for searching charging stations based on your payment method. This feature remembers your preferences, so you won’t have to select criteria for every new search.
Android Auto is continuously improving, and recently Google added Earth to customize the car’s display. Customization goes even further as the infotainment system now allows filtering when searching for a charging station. Previously, users had to recheck options for each new search, which was frustrating while driving. This issue has been fixed with beta version 15.7.654604.
Google Maps on Android Auto indicates payment methods for charging stations
Now, Google Maps on Android Auto includes the EV Payment Filters menu for beta users. It features a list of 29 networks and payment methods:
- EVgo
- ChargePoint
- Blink Network
- ChargeHub Passport
- AmpUp
- BP Pulse
- DKV Card + Charge
- E.ON Drive
- Electric Circuit
- Electrify America
- etron Charging Service
- EV Connect
- EVCS App
- EWE Go
- FLO
- Mobiflow
- MoveMove
- Northe
- Octopus Electroverse
- OVO Energy
- Pass+
- Plugsurfing
- Shell Recharge
- Smoov
- Supercharge (non-Tesla)
- Travelcard
- Virta
- Zap-Pay
The menu is divided into two sections, with the “Commons” category offering the 5 most frequently used options according to Google Maps data, allowing users to see available Tesla Supercharger stations. The “Other” section includes all current options. This hierarchy allows for quick access to relevant charging stations based on individual needs, eliminating the need to scroll through a long list.
To access this new feature, you simply need to enable the electric vehicle settings in the Android Auto configuration menu. However, as mentioned, this is a test version, so users will have to wait for the stable release for everyone. A wait of several weeks is expected.
But that’s not all; Google is preparing a filter to select the charging speed of electric stations. Drivers will be able to choose between Slow Charge up to 49 kW and Quick Charge, i.e., fast charging of 50 kW or more. There will also be options to select power ranges: up to 9 kW, 10 to 49 kW, 50 to 149 kW, 150 to 349 kW, and 350 kW or more. Multiple options can be selected simultaneously to broaden the results.
Additionally, Android Auto is currently testing a redesigned status bar that removes the clock display and centers all icons within the interface.
Source: 9to5google
