When it comes to navigating the world of electric vehicles (EVs), one question seems to come up more than any other: "Why can't I just use Google for EV routing?" It's a logical assumption—after all, Google and Waze provide highly detailed maps and route planning for drivers of all types. However, the reality for EV owners is far more complex, and the tools that work for traditional vehicles simply don't cut it for electric cars.
At first glance, using Google Maps or Waze might seem like a practical solution. They provide routing from point A to point B, and they list charging stations along the way. But here's the catch: these tools aren’t designed for the specific needs of EV drivers. Here’s why:
The Shortcomings of Google for EV Routing
It Doesn't Recognize Your EV's Specific Needs
Google doesn’t know which vehicle you’re driving. It can't account for factors like battery capacity, energy consumption, or charging speed. While a conventional car might have an almost endless driving range, EVs are limited by their battery size and efficiency. For example, an electric SUV with a larger battery and heavier weight consumes more energy than a compact electric car. Google doesn't consider this when planning a route, meaning the information provided could be inaccurate or even lead to unexpected charging stops.
No Calculation of Energy Consumption
Google's routing capabilities are basic, and that’s fine for regular cars. But for EV drivers, the calculation of how much energy will be needed for a trip is essential. Google doesn’t calculate the energy consumption required for a journey. An EV route planner like Chargetrip, on the other hand, factors in not just distance but the real energy needs of the car to get from point A to point B, ensuring drivers are prepared for the energy consumption throughout their trip.
No Control Over Charging Stops
Google only shows you charging stations along your route. However, it doesn't give you the ability to control which stations you stop at, or help you prioritize certain charging networks. This is a big issue for fleet operators, who want their drivers to use particular charging stations for reasons ranging from speed of service to partnerships with specific CPOs. Google simply doesn’t provide this level of control.
Lack of Personalization
With Google, the driver is left to make all decisions about where to charge. The route might show several charging options, but it won’t guide you towards preferred stations or suggest where you might get the best value. It’s a broad and generalized tool. With EV-specific routing tools like Chargetrip, you can tailor the entire experience to align with specific needs, like avoiding particular charging networks, recommending preferred stations, and even guiding drivers to locations that make the most sense based on battery levels and charging speeds.
Why EV Routing Needs to Be Smarter
EV routing is more than just getting from one place to another. It’s about having full control over where drivers charge, when they charge, and which networks they use. Smart EV routing allows for the customization of routes that are tailored to the specifics of the electric car, factoring in variables like energy usage, available charging stations, and user preferences. By incorporating these elements into routing, CPOs, fleet operators, and even individual EV owners can make their trips more efficient and cost-effective.
The ability to prioritize charging stations according to specific needs is vital, especially when it comes to maintaining a fleet. With a platform like Chargetrip, fleet managers can ensure drivers are not only charging at optimal stations but also helping their business by driving revenue to preferred CPO networks. The key here is control—not just for the individual driver but for fleet management as well.
While tools like Google Maps and Waze are indispensable for general route planning, they fall short in the world of EVs. The charging infrastructure and energy consumption needs of electric cars require more intelligent, tailored solutions. As more drivers and businesses shift to electric vehicles, it's clear that relying on generalized navigation tools will no longer suffice.
For those managing EV fleets or operating charging stations, having control over routing decisions is no longer optional—it's a necessity. The right EV routing solutions provide the flexibility and precision that Google simply cannot. So, while Google Maps might help you find your way, when it comes to EVs, it’s the specialized routing platforms that truly power your journey.
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