# Apple Maps EV Routing: A Major Advancement for Electric Vehicle Users
With the growing acceptance of electric vehicles (EVs), the demand for effective and user-centric navigation systems tailored specifically for the needs of EV drivers has become increasingly crucial. Apple Maps EV routing emerges as an attractive feature within Apple’s CarPlay ecosystem, providing drivers with an efficient method to plan routes that automatically incorporate necessary charging stops. With the expected launch of iOS 18.4, Apple aims to overcome one of the most prominent challenges of this feature, thereby improving the driving experience for EV users.
## The Present Situation of Apple Maps EV Routing
At this moment, Apple Maps EV routing is functional with a limited selection of electric vehicles, such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Porsche Taycan. This feature enables drivers to organize their trips while factoring in their vehicle’s battery status and the accessibility of charging stations throughout their journey. Nevertheless, a significant drawback has been the absence of integration with Tesla’s Supercharger network, which employs the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector.
Last year, Ford started providing adapters for the Mach-E and Lightning models, allowing users to charge at Tesla Superchargers. Despite this progress, Apple Maps did not refresh its routing system to incorporate these charging possibilities, resulting in a frustrating experience for users unable to utilize Tesla’s vast charging network through the app.
## The Anticipated Updates in iOS 18.4
In January, Ford revealed that Tesla Supercharger locations would soon be incorporated into Apple Maps EV routing. This advancement was validated with the beta release of iOS 18.4 for developers, featuring code that suggests Apple is working on addressing the routing limitations. The forthcoming feature will enable Apple Maps to identify vehicles that can access Tesla NACS stations, equipping drivers with crucial information when planning their routes.
For example, users might encounter alerts such as “You need to use a charging adapter on this route” or “Tesla NACS Adapter Required.” While this capability is not yet live, it is anticipated to be included in upcoming beta versions of iOS 18.4, allowing users to specify whether they have an adapter for efficient route planning.
## Improvements Beyond EV Routing
The iOS 18.4 update extends beyond enhancements for EV routing. It also introduces a revamped CarPlay interface, which features an extra row of apps on the home screen for select vehicles. This upgrade aims to boost usability and provide drivers with quicker access to their favorite applications while driving.
Apple Maps EV routing is crafted to aid drivers in trip planning by integrating necessary charging stops automatically. The system considers various elements, including the vehicle’s charge level, charger availability and speed, elevation changes, and driving velocity, to determine the optimal timing and duration for charging.
## Closing Thoughts
As the uptake of electric vehicles continues to grow, the incorporation of sophisticated navigation features like Apple Maps EV routing becomes ever more essential. With the upcoming iOS 18.4 update, Apple is set to significantly enhance the driving experience for EV users by addressing current limitations and expanding access to a wider array of charging solutions. This move not only highlights Apple’s dedication to refining its services but also emphasizes the necessity of evolving technology to meet the changing demands of consumers in the electric vehicle sector.
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Stay tuned for the official arrival of iOS 18.4 in April, as it promises to provide substantial improvements to the Apple Maps EV routing experience.
