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Jun 23, 2020 - Energy & Environment

Apple's new iOS courts EV drivers

headshot
The Apple iOS Maps application is seen running on an iPhone

Photo: Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Apple is adding a feature to its new iOS 14 phone operating system aimed at making it easier for EV drivers to find places to plug in.

Driving the news: "Electric vehicle routing adds charging stops along a planned route based on current vehicle charge and charger types," the company announced.

Why it matters: Concerns about running out of battery power — or "range anxiety" — is among the barriers to wider EV adoption.

How it works: "The company previously only allowed users to route to or from certain chargers in Maps, but now it will be able to include or add chargers to a trip, even on the fly," The Verge reports.

  • Their piece points out that drivers will of course need to find chargers compatible with their vehicle model, and that Apple is initially working with Ford and BMW.
  • Per TechCrunch, an Apple official said more vehicle manufacturers will be added soon.
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