UK EV charging digital platform Zap-Map has launched a free voice-activated function on Google Assistant that allows users to search for EV charge points using voice commands.
Available on Android and iOS mobile devices, Google Home and in-car using the latest version of Android Auto, Zap-Map uses natural language processing to provide voice responses to customers’ commands such as “find a charger nearby”.
The new service is now available in Zap-Map’s voice app for Google Assistant and is activated by saying “Hey Google… Talk to Zap-Map”.
Upon activation, drivers can access Zap-Map’s database of more than 95% of all public charge points – reportedly the biggest in the UK – to find charge points on route to a destination, or filter by rapid or non-rapid devices.
The information provided on charging locations includes the network operator, driving distance and status updates, including whether a charger is out of order or currently in use.
Ben Lane, co-founder of Zap-Map, said: “The launch of voice integration on Zap-Map is a huge step towards our mission to accelerate the shift from fossil fuel to electric cars.
“We are providing a quick and simple way for EV drivers to find out information on charge points at home, on the move and, for the first time ever, hands-free when they most need it – while driving.”
This news follows a number of announcements from the Bristol-based company, which include licensing its live mapping service to several companies including Nissan for use on its customer portal, and partnering with Go Ultra Low, a UK government and car industry backed campaign designed to encourage EV adoption.
Zap-Map plans to expand its services even further in 2020 by integrating with open in-car dash systems Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It will also launch Zap-Pay, a dedicated payment service usable across multiple network providers, in early 2020.
These features follow the release of Zap-Map’s route planner, which is designed to help EV drivers plan longer journeys, and Zap-Home, a network of private charging locations owned by households and businesses that have chosen to share electricity with other Zap-Map registered drivers.
Lane added: “This consolidation of various charging platforms, payment methods and user interfaces into a one-stop-shop app is making transition to EVs easier and more exciting than ever before.”
