Driving an EV pickup

[sly_karma]

On this year's road trips, I've been experimenting with using Google Maps rather than the Ford nav system. Some of the software updates early in the year mentioned improvements to Android Auto integration, and it seems like they have done just that. Entering a destination into Maps adds the distance to go below the Lightning's range display, and updates it in real time, same as the Ford nav does. You can tell it's connected into the vehicle's central management system, because it continues to update even when there is no wireless data signal.

One thing I wasn't sure would happen was preconditioning the battery ready for optimal DC fast charging, but I'm satisfied it works now - I'm seeing really high charge rates (>150 kW) in the first few minutes after plugging in.

Ford nav search function is sloppy and clunky compared to google. It's way easier to search for and find a charger or other destination. The only odd thing is you can't explore routes and chargers ahead of time on the phone, save it and send to the truck. I map it out on ABRP and then type it in to the truck right before departure.

Google accurately predicts battery percentage on arrival because it has direct access to vehicle data as the drive progresses.

I know when Ford dropped all mapping functions from the Fordpass app, they said they were working with Google to replace it. It's good to see how much it has progressed.

 

[sly_karma]

Additional to above: Back Roads Map Book app displays right onto the big screen via Android Auto. Has been useful on my last couple of logging road adventures. I haven't explored the app very much, but it doesnt appear to have much in the way of trip distance calculation or route planning capability. But boy does it have a lot of detail!

Downloading maps for use outside phone data coverage is easy, so you can track exactly where you are. Takes a lot of the guesswork out of route finding when you're "out the back of Woop Woop," if I may be forgiven for using Aussie speech. Although many of us have found ourselves in a bit of trouble in the bush despite knowing our precise location.

 

[sly_karma]

The nice people at Big White have provided a couple of DCFCs at their beautiful new Central Check-in building. I could get home fine without charging, but half an hour's worth of free electrons in a nice shady spot seems OK to me. Having one pre-dinner beer while answering emails after a dusty day on the race course.

I know the free charging incentives won't last forever, but there sure as hell ain't anyone giving out free gas anywhere. I'll take it while I can get it.

 

[chille51]

Additional to above: Back Roads Map Book app displays right onto the big screen via Android Auto. Has been useful on my last couple of logging road adventures. I haven't explored the app very much, but it doesnt appear to have much in the way of trip distance calculation or route planning capability. But boy does it have a lot of detail!

Downloading maps for use outside phone data coverage is easy, so you can track exactly where you are. Takes a lot of the guesswork out of route finding when you're "out the back of Woop Woop," if I may be forgiven for using Aussie speech. Although many of us have found ourselves in a bit of trouble in the bush despite knowing our precise location.

Now that's interesting. I assume it would work the same in my Powerboost. Might have to check out that Back Roads Map Book app. I have a small library of the hard copy books, but never looked at the app. I usually have a small hand held GPS with the Back Roads chip in the truck when exploring the back roads, but having information on the screen would be a hell of a lot easier. Plus, that chip is probably pushing 10 years old at this point.

 

[sly_karma]

If your vehicle has Android Auto or Apple Auto, you'll be able to put the BRMB on the screen. Definitely handy to have it on the bigger screen.