Waze, the popular navigation app that operates under Google and relies on crowdsourced information, has released a new feature for EV-friendly navigation. This feature shows users where electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are and allows users to conveniently plot their route on a path with EV charging. Previously this feature was only available for traditional gas stations and gas vehicles.
Along with this new feature, which makes Waze much more attractive to EV owners, Waze has released an in-app customization option that allows drivers to select an electric vehicle as their icon on the map. The icon that Waze has added for EV owners is a Volkswagen ID 4 SUV EV, which suits the app's new update.
EV-Friendly Navigation Apps
'Waze' Has Updated Its Application to Account for EV Charging Stations
Trend Themes
1. Ev-friendly Navigation - Navigation apps that cater to electric vehicle (EV) owners by providing information on EV charging stations and plotting them on the user's preferred route.
2. Crowdsourced EV Information - As more EV-friendly navigation apps are developed, there will be an increased need for crowdsourced information on EV charging stations, maintenance, and repair services.
3. In-vehicle EV Navigation - As EVs become more ubiquitous, there will be a demand for in-vehicle navigation systems specifically designed for EVs, including range estimators and recommendations for the most efficient routes.
Industry Implications
1. Navigation Technology - Navigation technology companies can develop customized maps for electric vehicle (EV) owners that account for EV charging stations and offer the most efficient routes.
2. EV Charging Infrastructure - As more EVs hit the market, companies that specialize in EV charging stations will need to expand their infrastructure to accommodate demand, including their placement along popular travel routes.
3. EV Manufacturing - EV manufacturers can partner with navigation technology companies to incorporate in-vehicle EV-friendly navigation systems into their models as a value-added feature.