A Better Routeplanner and Škoda recently announced that the MyŠKODA EV Planning software will be powered by the Iternio EV Planning API, the engine behind the well-known A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) app.
“We are honored to be selected by and partner with the manufacturer of one of the world’s best EVs and the rapidly growing team behind the app. Expect more updates about the scheduler in the app over time!” Iternio said in a press release.
I’ve long said that I think automakers should partner with the company, especially with the rather clunky implementations of trip planning that many infotainment systems offer. Many cheaper systems only give you a circle of range, which can be terribly inaccurate if you encounter hills or bad weather, among other things. But ABRP has long had a turnkey solution for various EVs.
Why I think Škoda made the right move
If you’ve been following my articles here a lot, you know that I like to use A Better Route Planner to virtually test how vehicles behave in extreme scenarios. Usually the problem I’m trying to point out has to do with the limitations of charging networks, especially in rural areas. Combine that with the challenges of things like electric truck towing, and you end up with a need for improvement that we can identify and advocate for.
The other important thing about A Better Route Planner is the variety of vehicles it works with. Some automakers, especially Tesla, have great route planning capabilities. By taking into account not only speed and a circle on a map, but also terrain, temperature and other factors, drivers can know whether they will make it to the destination and, most importantly, make the return journey or reach the next charging point.
But not all EVs have that capability. For example, my base 2018 LEAF only came with a standard Bluetooth stereo. The EPA estimated range of 150 miles was a low estimate for city driving, but it didn’t make sense at all on the highway. It wasn’t long before in my silly country adventures that the car wasn’t really built for, I realized I needed a better way to see what the vehicle could and couldn’t do.
When I found A Better Route Planner, it was a life saver. Rather than strictly limiting myself to driving closer to home, I was able to confidently take the car on road trips, even if it was rather clumsy. I found that some of the other limitations of the car, such as lack of liquid cooling, made this problematic, but I never got stuck as long as I made a good plan with the software.
Its adaptable and reliable nature makes it suitable for any vehicle, including anything Škoda can throw at it. In addition, with data directly from the manufacturer and the ability to get data live from the vehicle, both A Better Route Planner and the MyŠKODA EV Planning app will improve for all vehicles.
Featured image provided by Iternio/A Better Route Planner.
Check out our brand new E-BikeGuide† If you’re curious about electric bikes, this is the best place to start your e-mobility journey!
Do you appreciate the originality of CleanTechnica and the coverage of cleantech? Consider becoming a CleanTechnica member, supporter, technician or ambassador – or a patron on Patreon.