Zap-Map announces voice features for EV charging
Zap-Map, which helps EV drivers find their nearest charging points, has announced a free voice-activated function on Google Assistant.
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’
Drivers can access Zap-Map’s database of over 95% of all public charge points to find charge points en route to a destination, or even 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.
Says Simon Williams from the RAC: “If we are serious about moving towards zero-emission cars, it is imperative drivers have the confidence to make the switch to electric vehicles. Easy-to-use and accessible digital tools will be key to helping the growing number of EV drivers navigate the unfamiliar world of public charging safely while on the move.”
Adds Ben Lane, co-founder of Zap-Map: “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.”
The new product is set to capitalise on rapidly shifting consumer behaviour as electrification and digitisation begin to dominate. The number of EVs on British roads is predicted to hit 35 million by 2050, while at the same time the number of virtual digital assistant devices, such as Google Assistant, is due to surpass world population by 2021.
Zap-Map plans to expand its services in 2020 by integrating with open in-car dash systems Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It will also launch a Zap-Pay feature – a dedicated payment service usable across multiple network providers.
