Find available charging stations for your Ford F-150 Lightning
Planning a road trip in your electric vehicle (EV) has never been easier, thanks to the powerful combination of Apple CarPlay and Google Maps. Whether you’re commuting across Alberta or exploring the open road, this smart technology can help you find EV charging stations, monitor your range, and navigate the best route with confidence. At Sherwood Ford in Sherwood Park, we’re always here to help our customers get the most out of their vehicle’s advanced features—especially when it comes to making the switch to electric mobility. Keep reading to learn about using Apple CarPlay with Google Maps to plan an EV trip and find available charging stations for your Ford F-150 Lightning.
How to plan an EV trip with Apple CarPlay and Google Maps
To plan an EV trip with Apple CarPlay and Google Maps, connect your iPhone, open Google Maps, set EV routing, and enter your destination; Google Maps will automatically suggest charging stops along the route, including charging time, and you can view the plan in CarPlay.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Prerequisites:
- Compatible iPhone and CarPlay: Ensure your iPhone is compatible with CarPlay and that you have the latest version of iOS.
- Google Maps App: Make sure you have the Google Maps app installed on your iPhone.
- CarPlay-Compatible Vehicle: Your vehicle must support Apple CarPlay.
- Electric Vehicle: You need an electric vehicle (EV) for this to work.
- Setting Up EV Routing in Google Maps:
- Connect iPhone to CarPlay: Connect your iPhone to your car’s CarPlay system.
- Open Google Maps: Launch the Google Maps app on your iPhone.
- Get Directions: Enter your destination and get driving directions.
- Enable EV Routing: If your vehicle is compatible, Google Maps should automatically detect that you are driving an EV and suggest charging stops along the route. If not, you may need to manually set up EV routing in the Google Maps app on your iPhone.
- Select Route: Choose your preferred route and tap “Go.”
- Viewing the Trip Plan in CarPlay:
- Charging Stops:
Google Maps will display suggested charging stops along the route, including estimated charging time and arrival time with the charge level. - Real-time Updates:
The charging plan will be displayed in real-time in CarPlay, allowing you to see any changes to the route or charging stops. - Charging Time Included:
The charging time will be factored into the total trip duration. - Alternative Charging Stops:
You can also manually add or replace suggested charging stops in the Apple Maps app on your iPhone. - Find EV Charging Stations:
You can search for charging stations by tapping the search bar, typing “charging stations,” and then selecting “EV plugs.”
Using PlugShare to find public charging stations
PlugShare (plugshare.com) allows you to quickly locate public EV charging stations near you. Simply put in your location, and it’ll show you all nearby electric charging stations, along with availability and other key information. Try searching “Sherwood Ford” on PlugShare.
Benefits of Using Apple CarPlay with Google Maps for EV Travel
Apple CarPlay pairs your iPhone with your car’s infotainment screen, giving you hands-free access to directions, music, messages, and more. When you use Google Maps within CarPlay for an EV trip, you unlock several advantages:
- Charging Station Integration: Google Maps can automatically include EV charging stops based on your battery level and route.
- Real-Time Updates: Get live traffic conditions, road closures, and ETAs, so you’re never caught off guard.
- Custom Route Planning: Avoid range anxiety by planning your route around fast-charging stations or your preferred network.
- User-Friendly Interface: Large, easy-to-read maps and voice guidance make it simple to stay focused on the road.
Why EV Drivers in Sherwood Park Love Smart Navigation
Here in Sherwood Park, more drivers are making the switch to electric vehicles for their environmental benefits and low cost of ownership. With tools like Apple CarPlay and Google Maps, EV ownership becomes even more convenient. Whether you’re headed into Edmonton or planning a weekend escape to the Rockies, you’ll appreciate the peace of mind that comes with smart route planning and reliable charging access.
Sherwood Ford is proud to support local EV drivers with both vehicle expertise and helpful tech tips. If you’re new to EVs or want to learn more about optimizing your trips, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
