- Ford EVs now feature EV trip planning with Google Maps navigation system integration
- Ford previously offered EV trip planning using Apple Maps through Apple CarPlay
- Google announced the integration of Gemini AI-curated Maps functionality into Ford EVs and upcoming Rivians
Owners of Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning electric vehicles will now have access to enhanced EV trip-planning capabilities through Google Maps following Ford’s latest over-the-air software update.
This feature, which is part of Android Auto, utilizes vehicle data to display an estimated battery level upon reaching a destination, recommend charging stops along the route, and estimate the required charging time. Initially revealed at CES 2024 in January, the feature is now being rolled out, as explained by Ford product manager Anthony Phillips in a recent LinkedIn post.
In addition to the newly added Google Maps integration, Ford already provides Apple Maps EV trip planning via Apple CarPlay on the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning. Both systems leverage the vehicle’s state-of-charge data and include battery preconditioning features.
2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally
The latest update also enables Google Maps to display Tesla Supercharger stations, where Ford EV owners can charge using adapters provided by the automaker. En-route battery pack preconditioning is included for all DC fast-charging stations selected as stops during trip planning.
To access this feature, users need to have the most recent Ford over-the-air (OTA) update installed on their vehicles and the latest version of Google Maps on their smartphones. Once both updates are completed, drivers can access EV route planning by opening Android Auto.
2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Flash
Aside from Apple CarPlay or Android Auto trip planning, Ford also offers its own embedded navigation features.
Google initially introduced EV charging sites to its navigation app in 2018, primarily as points of interest. It wasn’t until early 2023 that Google announced a more detailed data set on charging stations, enabling certain EVs with Google built-in features to provide state-of-charge and range estimates required for dynamic navigation with charging stops. This functionality has mostly been available to brands utilizing Google-based infotainment systems such as Volvo, Polestar, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC.
While the Ford update incorporating Google Maps is being rolled out, Google also unveiled new Gemini AI-curated Maps functionality on Friday, which is expected to expand to route planning and is anticipated to be integrated into Rivian vehicles.
Google teases AI summaries in Rivian EVs
Google highlighted its initial feature set, which can generate personalized visualizations related to EV chargers, services, and more.
“Next month, Rivian will start utilizing this feature to display summaries of restaurants, shops, and supermarkets on their infotainment screens—enabling drivers to quickly learn more about a location,” stated Google.
Although Ford has not provided specific details to Green Car Reports regarding the impact of this new feature on the in-vehicle experience, it is evident that the automaker is dedicated to delivering ample information to enhance the road trip experience for drivers.