Charging Smarter Starts Here
Tesla just made finding a Supercharger with open stalls much easier—even if you don’t drive a Tesla.
The brand’s Live Availability feature, once exclusive to Tesla’s in-car system, now integrates directly with Google Maps. That means EV drivers using Android Auto can now see in real time how many stalls are open at a given Supercharger location.
Why It Matters
This move is a big deal, especially for non-Tesla EV owners. With more Superchargers now open to other brands, knowing whether a charger is free makes a major difference.
Before this update, drivers using Android-based systems often had no way to check plug availability unless they were in a Tesla. The result? Frustration, long waits, or wasted detours.
Now, with a simple glance at Google Maps, anyone can find a station that’s ready for a quick plug-in.
Easing the Congestion
Tesla’s Supercharger network is expanding fast. But so is demand. With more EVs on the road—and more brands accessing Tesla plugs—congestion has become a real issue.
Live stall data brings much-needed transparency. It helps spread traffic more evenly across stations and prevents drivers from queuing at already-packed sites.
A Win for the EV Ecosystem
This update isn’t just a Tesla upgrade—it’s a step forward for the entire EV community. As charging networks become more brand-agnostic, user-friendly features like this create a better, more unified experience. It also signals a shift: automakers and tech platforms are beginning to prioritize cross-compatibility over exclusivity.
Apple Users Next?
Interestingly, this marks one of the rare times Android Auto got a Tesla feature before iOS. While Tesla’s app often rolls out updates to Apple users first, Apple Maps has yet to integrate Live Availability.
But with this direction now clear, expect iOS support soon. Real-time Supercharger data is no longer a Tesla-only advantage—it’s becoming an industry standard.
