According to Sawyer Merritt on X, Google is rolling out AI-powered EV trip planning and battery predictions in Google Maps to over 350 car models with Android Auto, recommending when and where to charge based on vehicle type and current battery level, and showing estimated battery at arrival with dynamic adjustments during the trip. According to Google via Android Auto product updates, the system uses vehicle-specific data and real-time traffic to plan efficient routes, surface compatible fast chargers, and minimize range anxiety for EV drivers. As reported by The Verge, AI enhancements in Maps increasingly leverage contextual signals to personalize routing, which in this case can reduce charging stops and total trip time for supported EVs. According to Google’s mobility announcements, automakers integrating Android Auto can enable these features without custom apps, creating new partnership and data-sharing opportunities around charger availability, pricing, and plug compatibility.

According to Sawyer Merritt on X, Toyota unveiled its first all-electric three-row SUV for the US—the 2027 Highlander EV—with up to 320 miles of range, native NACS, and 0–80% fast charging in about 30 minutes, plus battery preconditioning. According to the announcement reported by Sawyer Merritt, the model offers 77 kWh and 95.8 kWh battery options and US assembly in Kentucky. From an AI perspective, battery preconditioning typically relies on predictive thermal control informed by route and charger data; according to Toyota’s feature list shared by Sawyer Merritt, this creates opportunities for AI-driven charging optimization, such as machine learning models that forecast charger availability and dynamically manage pack temperature to reduce charge time and degradation. According to industry practice referenced in coverage like Merritt’s post, native NACS access enables rich telemetry for fleet analytics; this supports AI-based energy cost prediction, charge scheduling, and residual value modeling for dealers and mobility operators. As reported by Sawyer Merritt, the dual-pack configuration provides a dataset for AI-based range estimation and driver coaching, enabling businesses to integrate real-world consumption modeling into TCO calculators and smart routing for ride-hailing and delivery fleets.

According to Sawyer Merritt, Volvo has released a new safety video showcasing the all-electric EX60, highlighting advanced AI-powered safety systems integrated into the vehicle. The EX60 features a 400-mile EPA range, 400kW peak charging speed, and a 112 kWh battery. Notably, the model includes native NACS charging port support, enabling 173 miles of range added in just 10 minutes. These AI-driven safety features and connected vehicle technologies position Volvo to compete in the rapidly evolving electric and autonomous vehicle market, opening business opportunities for AI safety software providers and charging infrastructure solutions. U.S. deliveries are set for Summer 2026 (Source: Sawyer Merritt on X, Jan 23, 2026).