Google has plans to update their “Google Maps” database with locations of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. In several previous posts I have given the EV a hard time for various reasons such as lack of driving distance, price gouging at dealerships, and charging station locations. I do not necessarily question that the EV is most likely the future. But what I do struggle with, and try to point out, is that the technology is not yet ready for prime time.
While Google’s efforts are noteworthy, you’re going to have to really zoom in to actually find a charging station. Other than using the electricity at your own home, charging stations are few and far between and the locations leave an awful lot to be desired. There are a few retailers and businesses that have installed charging stations, but again, those are few when you consider scale. Installing them at rest areas along the freeway system is most likely throwing money into a pit. People don’t take trips along the freeway to only stop every 50 miles or so to take on a four to six hour charge.
