The new features will first be available on Android devices in eight cities, and will later be rolled out to iOS devices. Google Maps will also show information about more than 8,000 EV charging stations in partnership with providers such as ElectricPe, Ather Energy, Kazam and Statiq. This is the first time Google Maps will show results for two-wheeler EV charging stations. Google has also partnered with India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and Namma Yatri, a ride-hailing app, to allow users to book tickets for local trains and metros, and hail auto rickshaws from within Google Maps.
Key takeaways:
- Google is introducing new features to Google Maps in India, including an AI model that helps drivers navigate flyovers and narrow roads, and a partnership with a government initiative to allow commuters to book local train and metro tickets from within the app.
- The AI model estimates road width using satellite imagery and Street View data, and considers factors like the type of road, distance between buildings, tree cover, poles and drains to help drivers avoid narrow roads.
- Google Maps will now also show information about EV charging stations in India, including the plug types supported at the available stations, and for the first time, results for two-wheeler EV charging stations.
- Google has partnered with India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and Namma Yatri, a Google-backed ride-hailing app, to let users book tickets for local trains and metros, and hail auto rickshaws in Indian cities from within Google Maps.