Electric cars are becoming more popular every year. Driving one often requires a different type of GPS because you need to find charging stations along your route. Regular GPS devices do not always show charging locations or give the best routes for electric vehicles.
A GPS designed for electric cars helps drivers plan trips by showing charging points and estimating how far the car can go. These devices can help avoid running out of power in places with few chargers. They often include options to search for fast chargers, pricing, and compatibility with different car models.
When choosing a GPS for an electric car, it is important to look at charging station coverage, ease of use, and how it fits with your car’s system. Battery range calculations and real-time updates on charger availability also matter for a smooth trip. We tested several GPS devices to find the ones that make driving electric cars easier and more reliable.
Contents
Best GPS for Electric Car
We have researched and tested several GPS devices designed specifically for electric cars. Our list includes products that help with route planning, charging station locations, and battery management. This guide will help you find the best GPS to suit your electric vehicle needs.
Garmin Drive 53 GPS
We found the Garmin Drive 53 to be a solid choice for simple and clear navigation in an electric car with useful route alerts and good map details.
Pros
- Bright, easy-to-see 5” touchscreen
- Helpful driver alerts for curves and speed zones
- Points out food, fuel, and rest stops along the way
Cons
- Battery life is very short, best used plugged in
- Limited to North America maps only
- Some features require learning due to basic instructions
The 5-inch screen is bright and sharp, making it easy to glance at while driving. We appreciated the clear spoken directions that matched the onscreen route well. It felt reliable in finding the best path without confusing extra menus.
Driver safety alerts stood out as very useful. Being warned about sharp curves or school zones made us feel more prepared, and the device guided us smoothly through unfamiliar areas. It also showed stops for food and charging on long trips, which is great for electric cars.
One downside is the battery life, which lasts about an hour. You’ll want to keep it plugged into your vehicle. The map coverage focuses on North America, so it won’t help if you cross borders. Overall, it’s a dependable GPS for everyday use without extra fuss.
HINYFVOZ 9-Inch GPS Navigator
This GPS is a solid choice for electric car owners looking for clear navigation and custom routing suited to different vehicle types.
Pros
- Large, clear 9-inch touchscreen reduces distraction
- Custom routes for cars, trucks, and RVs avoid tricky roads
- Free lifetime map updates keep navigation current
Cons
- FM transmitter only plays voice instructions, no radio
- Device size may crowd smaller dashboards
- Limited voice command options compared to some models
The screen on this GPS really stands out. Its size and clarity made it easy for us to check directions without taking our eyes off the road for long. The menus felt intuitive, so we could enter destinations quickly.
Having the option to input vehicle size and type helped us avoid roads that would not fit our electric car. This feature adds safety and convenience, especially for anyone using larger EVs or towing.
One drawback we noticed is that the FM transmitter only sends navigation voice to the car stereo, not radio stations. Plus, the device’s size might be a tight fit in compact vehicles. Overall, this tool offers dependable support for electric car trips with real-world useful features.
HINYFVOZ GPS Navigator
This GPS is a solid choice for electric car drivers who need accurate routes and safety alerts tailored to larger vehicles.
Pros
- Custom routing for trucks and RVs prevents routing through low bridges
- Clear and bright 7-inch touchscreen is easy to see both day and night
- Free lifetime map updates keep navigation current without extra cost
Cons
- Initial GPS signal acquisition can take up to 30 minutes outside
- Setup requires careful input of vehicle dimensions for correct routing
- Charger must be the included original to avoid battery issues
We found the large screen helpful for quick glances while driving, and adjusting the mount angle reduced glare well. Entering vehicle size was a bit tricky at first, but it really helped avoid routes not suitable for our EV’s size.
The alerts for speed cameras and red lights added extra peace of mind on busy roads. We appreciated the option to broadcast directions over the car stereo, making voice prompts much easier to hear.
On longer trips, the lifetime map updates were a real convenience. However, getting the initial GPS signal requires patience and an open outdoor area, which can slow down first-time use. Overall, it’s a reliable navigation tool for electric car owners who want tailored routing and clear guidance.
HINYFVOZ 7″ GPS Navigator
This GPS is a solid choice for electric car drivers who want clear navigation with custom routes and free map updates.
Pros
- Large, bright 7-inch screen is easy to read in all light conditions
- Custom routing that considers your vehicle size and avoids restricted roads
- Lifetime free map updates keep navigation current without extra cost
Cons
- Suction mount can lose grip in extreme hot or cold weather
- Some users find screen navigation a bit tricky between menus
- FM feature only transmits GPS audio, not a full radio
We found the HINYFVOZ GPS very straightforward to set up. The suction mount holds well when installed on a clean surface, though it may need a quick reset in harsh weather. Once secure, the large screen gives a clear view of routes and alerts, which makes driving less stressful.
Voice instructions are easy to hear and come in several languages. The ability to pick 2D or 3D views and switch between day and night modes helps keep directions visible during any time of day.
One feature we appreciated was the vehicle-specific routing. It adjusts for trucks, RVs, and cars by avoiding roads that may not be suitable. This makes planning longer trips easier, especially when driving an electric vehicle that needs route efficiency.
The included accessories make it ready to use right away, and the touchscreen feels responsive. While navigating between screens sometimes requires patience, overall it handles the job well. For drivers wanting a dedicated GPS without a smartphone, this model delivers reliable guidance with up-to-date maps.
Garmin DriveSmart 76
The Garmin DriveSmart 76 is a solid choice for electric car drivers who want clear directions and helpful travel info all in one device.
Pros
- Large, bright 7-inch screen makes navigation easy to see
- Voice assist lets us keep focus on the road while asking for directions
- Live traffic, weather, and parking info help avoid delays on trips
Cons
- Setup and updates can be tricky without a stable Wi-Fi connection
- The interface feels less intuitive compared to older models at first
- Only one USB outlet on the charger means fewer charging options in the car
Using this GPS felt straightforward once we got used to the touch screen. The screen is bright and the maps are crisp, which is great for following routes without squinting. Having voice commands means our hands stayed on the wheel when we needed to make quick changes.
We appreciated the extra info it provides beyond just directions—things like Tripadvisor ratings and alerts about school zones or sharp curves really help make driving safer and more interesting. The live traffic and fuel price updates were handy, especially paired with our phone through the Garmin Drive app.
On the downside, updating the software over Wi-Fi can be a bit slow or confusing without a strong connection. The device also felt a little complicated when we first started using it, and the charger only has one USB port, so sharing power can be an issue in cars with multiple gadgets. Overall, it’s a dependable device for electric car users who want reliable navigation and useful extras.
Bouncie GPS Tracker
This tracker is a solid choice if you want easy real-time tracking and vehicle health data all in one device.
Pros
- Fast, accurate real-time location updates
- Monitors driving habits and engine health
- Simple plug-in setup and app interface
Cons
- Monthly subscription fee required
- Can be removed easily if not secured
- Doesn’t show exact battery range
We found the Bouncie GPS Tracker to be very straightforward to install. Just plug it into the OBD port of the car, download the app, and the setup is done quickly.
It gives us detailed driving insights like speed, braking, and idle time, which is helpful for monitoring our electric car’s habits. Plus, it alerts us to any engine problems early, helping avoid surprises on the road.
The geo-fencing feature is handy. We get notifications when the car enters or leaves a set area, and accident alerts add some peace of mind.
The monthly cost is clear, but it’s worth considering for ongoing use. We also noticed the device could be removed easily, so securing it might require extra effort.
Overall, the Bouncie tracker balances useful features with ease of use, making it a practical pick for keeping tabs on our electric vehicle.
Koyetubs Mini GPS Tracker
This compact GPS tracker works well for keeping an eye on electric cars without any monthly fees.
Pros
- Easy to set up with just a SIM card
- Real-time location updates with good accuracy
- Small size and magnetic design for hidden placement
Cons
- Requires a SIM card purchase separately
- Some users might find app features basic
- Alerts can sometimes be delayed
We found this GPS tracker handy for real-time monitoring. It fits in tight spaces thanks to its tiny size and sticks easily with its magnetic backing. The location updates showed good precision in our tests.
Setting it up took only minutes—insert a SIM card, download the app, and start tracking. The app allows choosing how often you want location reports, which can save battery or give frequent updates when needed.
The no-subscription feature is a big plus. You just pay once for the device. The safety alerts worked well but were not always instant. Overall, it feels like a smart, simple way to protect your electric car without extra monthly costs.
Garmin DriveSmart 66
This GPS is a solid choice for electric car drivers who want clear maps and useful alerts for safer driving.
Pros
- Clear, bright 6-inch screen that’s easy to read
- Helpful driver alerts for curves, speed, and hazards
- Alexa and Garmin voice assist support hands-free use
Cons
- Short battery life, so mostly relies on car power
- Setup and updates can be tricky without a cable
- Some features need a smartphone app to work fully
We found the Garmin DriveSmart 66 easy to follow thanks to the bright and sharp screen. It made spotting upcoming turns and hazards simple. The voice assist worked well for directions, so we kept our hands on the wheel.
Driver alerts helped us stay alert in tricky areas like sharp curves and school zones. Plus, Alexa built in lets you play music or hear news without taking your eyes off the road, though you need the Garmin app on your phone to use it.
One downside is that the device’s battery lasts only about an hour, so it’s best plugged in. Also, while updates over Wi-Fi are possible, we had to use a USB cable at times, which felt less convenient. Overall, it’s a dependable GPS with smart features suited for electric vehicle trips.
VKAFW Mini GPS Tracker
This compact tracker is great for electric car owners who want real-time location updates without monthly fees.
Pros
- Small and easy to hide anywhere on the car
- Long battery life of up to two years
- No subscription or SIM card needed
Cons
- Sometimes the app can be a bit slow to update
- Requires a metal surface for magnetic mounting
- Not ideal if your electric car uses mostly non-metal parts outside
We found the VKAFW Mini GPS Tracker to be very convenient during our drives and daily use. Its tiny size makes it easy to hide in tight spaces without anyone noticing. We liked that it sticks well to metal using strong magnets and stayed put even on rough roads.
Battery life stood out as a big advantage. This tracker did not need charging for months, which gave us peace of mind. Also, the tracker works globally and the app is straightforward to use, showing exact location quickly on our phones.
However, the tracker depends on metal surfaces to hold it in place securely. If you have parts of your electric car without metal, you might struggle to mount it. The app updates are mostly fast, but we noticed occasional delays in real-time tracking, so it’s not perfect for instant alerts.
Overall, this tracker offers solid value with its no-fee operation and long battery life, making it a smart choice for keeping tabs on an electric car’s location.
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker
This tracker is a solid choice for electric car owners who want reliable, real-time location tracking with good battery life.
Pros
- Accurate and fast location updates
- Strong magnetic mount keeps it secure
- Long battery life with motion-activated sleep mode
Cons
- Requires a paid subscription to work
- Can be a bit pricey over time due to fees
- Setup is easy but not completely plug-and-play
We’ve used the LandAirSea 54 for tracking our electric car, and it impressed us with how quickly it reports positions. The updates come every few seconds, which is useful when you want to know if the vehicle is moving or parked. The device is very small and sticks firmly because of its strong magnet, so it stays hidden without worry.
The battery life stands out. It can last weeks between charges if the car isn’t moving all the time because it goes into sleep mode. You don’t have to worry about checking the battery daily, which makes it practical for everyday use.
One downside is that you must subscribe to a plan to get the tracking service. The monthly cost adds up, especially if you want long-term tracking. Still, the ability to view live locations and get alerts in the app makes it worth it for us. Overall, this tracker balances value, performance, and ease well.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best GPS for an electric car, we need to focus on features that help with battery management and route planning. A good GPS should show charging stations along the way and estimate how much charge we’ll need.
Battery range display is important. It helps us know if we can reach the next charging point without running out of power. We should also look for real-time traffic updates to avoid delays that might waste battery life.
Easy-to-read maps and clear voice directions are essential. They keep us focused on driving safely. The GPS should also support smartphone integration so we can use apps and get updates easily.
We should think about screen size and readability. A GPS with a large display and bright screen is easier to use in sunlight. Durability matters too, especially if we drive in different weather conditions.
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Charging Station Info | Helps plan stops to recharge |
| Battery Range Estimate | Avoid running out of power |
| Traffic Updates | Save time and battery by avoiding traffic |
| Screen Quality | Clear view in all lighting conditions |
| Voice Guidance | Keeps driving safe without distraction |
| Smartphone Support | Access to latest maps and info |
We also want to check if the device updates maps regularly. Technology changes fast, so staying current is useful. Finally, the GPS should be easy to install and use, without too many complicated steps.
Editor’s Choice
We chose the Tesla Model 3’s built-in GPS as our top pick for electric car navigation. It offers accurate real-time updates and integrates well with the car’s charging system. This helps drivers find nearby chargers and plan routes efficiently.
Another strong choice is the Garmin DriveSmart 65, which is easy to use and has a large, clear screen. It also provides detailed traffic info and points out electric vehicle-friendly routes. We like that it supports voice commands for safer driving.
The A Better Routeplanner (ABRP) app stands out for those who prefer using smartphones. It customizes routes based on your car’s model, battery capacity, and terrain. This app helps avoid running out of power by showing the best charging stops along your route.
| GPS Option | Key Features | Why We Recommend It |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 GPS | Built-in, charger integration | Accurate, electric-specific |
| Garmin DriveSmart 65 | Large screen, voice commands | User-friendly, EV route support |
| A Better Routeplanner (App) | Custom EV routes, charging stops | Flexible, detailed planning |
Our selections focus on accuracy, ease of use, and electric vehicle-specific capabilities. These help make any journey with an electric car smoother and less stressful.
Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals
We recommend checking Amazon first when looking for a GPS for your electric car. Amazon often has competitive prices and a wide selection of brands and models. You can compare different products quickly and read user reviews to make a solid choice.
Here are some tips to find the best deals on Amazon:
- Look for products marked with “Amazon’s Choice” or top customer ratings.
- Use the filter options to narrow down based on price, features, and brand.
- Watch for special sales events like Prime Day or Black Friday for extra discounts.
- Check if the product offers free shipping or easy returns.
Below is a simple example of popular GPS models for electric cars you might find on Amazon:
| Model | Price Range | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Garmin DriveSmart | $120 – $180 | Real-time traffic updates |
| TomTom GO | $150 – $200 | EV-specific route planning |
| Anker GPS Navigator | $70 – $110 | Compact and affordable |
We suggest reading reviews carefully. Some GPS devices have apps or extra features useful for electric vehicles. Always check warranty terms and customer service quality before purchasing.
Amazon also allows us to track prices and get alerts when a preferred GPS goes on sale. This way, we can make sure to buy at the best possible price.
FAQS
What makes a GPS good for electric cars?
A good GPS for electric cars shows nearby charging stations and estimates how much battery you will use on your route. It helps us plan trips without running out of power.
Do all GPS devices show electric car charging stations?
No, not all GPS devices have this feature. We need GPS systems designed for electric cars or apps that include charging locations.
Can we trust GPS directions for electric cars?
Yes, but we should double-check. Sometimes charging stations may be busy or out of order. It’s smart to have backup options.
Are smartphone apps better than built-in GPS?
Both have pros and cons. Built-in GPS is usually easier to use while driving. Apps may update more often with new charging stations.
How often should GPS maps be updated?
Regular updates are important. Charging stations can change quickly, so keeping maps current helps us avoid problems.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Charging station info | Essential |
| Battery usage estimate | Very helpful |
| Route planning | Important |
| Real-time traffic | Useful |
Using the right GPS means less stress and smoother trips in our electric cars.
Conclusion
Choosing the best GPS for an electric car means looking at features that support electric driving. We want a device that helps us find charging stations easily and plans routes based on battery life. This makes trips safer and less stressful.
Battery management, real-time traffic updates, and route optimization are key. Not every GPS has these features, so we need to pick carefully. Some apps and devices work better with certain car models, so compatibility matters too.
Here’s what we suggest focusing on:
- Charging station maps
- Range calculation
- Traffic alerts
- User-friendly interface
Price and design also matter. We prefer a GPS that fits well in the car and stays within budget without missing vital functions.
We believe that the right GPS can save time and improve our driving experience. It helps us use our electric cars in smarter, more efficient ways. Taking the time to compare options will pay off on the road.