Google maps EV charging stations

EVer ready

A small step for the company that does no evil, a giant leap forward for would be EV drivers concerned about range anxiety.

Last week Google added EV charging station locations to its mapping service in the US, providing a centralised source of EV chargers for users of electric vehicles.

Google is collaborating with the US government's National Renewable Energy Laboratory to display chargers listed on its GeoEVSE Forum.  It currently displays nearly 7,000 alternative fuelling stations and an international version is expected soon.

This should be huge news. For most EV drivers, in most large cities, this will soon mean the end of range anxiety. Kapow!

Here in the UK, EV Network UK has been providing the same service for more than 5 years, following the early success of the G-Wiz. But unfortunately it doesn't have the reach and resources of Google. One solution available to everyone at a stroke, updatable on a daily basis as charging stations roll out.

Meanwhile, Palo alto start-up Xatori is offering its free Plugshare app for iPhones, iPads and the iPod Touch, with an android version to follow. In true Californian spirit it's a free, community driven mobile app that allows users to find nearby charging spots including those in the homes of other users on the network.

Crowd sourcing your juice, that's a really nice idea.