Google enhances Android Auto with Tesla’s NACS charger support

Google has kicked off a new update for Android Auto, which makes it easier for electric vehicles (EVs) to find charging stations using Tesla’s NACS. This update is available on Play Store with version 12.9.143804.

The fresh update is currently rolling out as in beta version through the Play Store’s beta program, and it will reach more users in the coming weeks. It is especially available for non-Tesla EVs, which can now easily locate NACS-compatible charging stations.

Last year, Android Auto introduced an “Electric vehicle settings” menu. It helps users navigate based on different charging types, including J1772, CCS (Combo 1 and 2), Type 2, and CHAdeMO. However, it didn’t initially support the NACS standard.

Now, the NACS support has been added with the latest update. It lets Google Maps help them find the nearest charging stations. This is especially useful for drivers of non-Tesla EVs, as Tesla cars do not support Android Auto.

This update comes at a time when General Motors has also approved an NACS adapter for its electric vehicles. This means that drivers can select both NACS and the CCS plug that comes built into their vehicles.

Previously, Google redesigned the UI for Google Assistant on Android Auto, which brought noticeable changes in its design during voice interaction. The new look of Google Assistant is quite similar to Apple’s Siri interface on CarPlay.