To find electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along your route, here are the most effective methods:
1. Using Waze for Real-Time Navigation
- Enable EV features: In Waze, go to Settings → Vehicle details → Electric vehicles and toggle on EV features. Add your plug types and preferred networks.
- Search during navigation: Tap the search bar → select EV charging → choose a station → View routes → Go now or Leave later to plan.
- Note: EV charging options may take a few hours to appear after activation. Restart the app if needed.
2. Google Maps’ AI-Powered Tools
- Location summaries: AI-generated descriptions (e.g., “enter underground parking and follow signs”) help pinpoint charger locations, based on user reviews.
- Charging details: Search for “EV charging stations” to see nearby options, plug types, and availability. Updated features rolled out in April 2024 enhance road-trip planning.
3. ChargeHub Trip Planner
- Plan routes: Input start/destination points on ChargeHub’s website → select “Trip Planner” → choose a route → add stations using filters (e.g., network compatibility).
- Filters: Refine stations by plug type, power level, and networks you can activate via the ChargeHub app.
4. U.S. Department of Energy’s AFDC Database
- Comprehensive directory: Use the Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) map to find all U.S. and Canadian stations, filterable by network, plug type, and accessibility.
Key Tips
- Verify compatibility: Always check plug types (e.g., CCS, CHAdeMO) and network memberships (e.g., Electrify America) before departing.
- Check live status: Apps like PlugShare (if available) provide user-generated reviews on station functionality, though it was temporarily inaccessible during testing.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-can-i-find-charging-stations-along-my-route/
