Google Maps Enhances Services For Indian Users With Flyover Guidance And EV Charging Locations

Google Maps has introduced several new features tailored for Indian users , including the ability to find EV charging points and book metro tickets in select Indian cities.

One of the most anticipated updates is the introduction of flyover guidance . “Flyover guidance has been one of the most requested features from our users, we have heard you and acted on it,” said Lalitha Ramani, the general manager of Google Maps India, during a press briefing on Thursday, July 25. This feature will help users decide whether to take a flyover or the service road next to it by providing upcoming flyover callouts along their routes.

Although similar features exist on alternative digital map platforms like the MapMyIndia-owned Mappls app, Google’s flyover callouts are now available across 40 cities in India, benefiting both four-wheeler and two-wheeler users. Initially, this update will be available on Android devices, with iOS and CarPlay users receiving it later.

In addition, Google Maps is expanding its support for electric vehicle (EV) drivers by adding over 8,000 EV charging locations across India. These will be integrated through collaborations with providers such as ElectricPe, Ather, Kazam, and Statiq. “We are seeing a real surge in EV adoption in India, both for cars and two-wheelers and we want to make sure that EV drivers have the information they need,” said Ramani. Google Maps will display detailed information about the EV charging stations , including plug types and real-time availability. Users can also filter locations based on charger type and find stations specifically meant for two-wheelers, a feature unique to India.

Metro ticket booking is another significant update, developed in collaboration with the government-led Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and ride booking app Namma Yatri. This feature will go live in Kochi and Chennai within the week. However, it will initially be available only for Android users, with iOS users having to wait for a future update. Additionally, developers of third-party apps can integrate navigational features like narrow roads alerts and flyover callouts through Google’s Routes API.

Other updates announced by Google Maps include faster reporting options for ongoing construction or traffic accidents and a ‘Lists’ feature that allows users to curate recommendations for places like the “Top Breakfast Spots in Mumbai” or the “Best Ocean-View Cafes in Goa.”

Earlier in July, Google announced a price reduction for Indian developers using its Maps API, coinciding with Ola’s decision to switch to its in-house solution. Miriam Daniel, VP and GM of Google Maps, explained that the revised API pricing was timed with the Google I/O connect event in Bengaluru, saying, “We had to localize all of our pricing systems and make them available in local currency for our partners in India.”