For many around the globe, Google Maps remains the trusted go-to app for navigation. Continuously evolving, Google frequently introduces fresh features to its Maps app. In September 2022, a ‘fuel-saving’ feature made its debut, initially limited to the US, Canada, and Europe. However, the good news arrives now as this feature extends its reach to India.
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Here is how you can work
This new addition provides estimates on fuel or energy efficiency for different routes, tailored to your vehicle’s engine type. Upon activation, Google Maps evaluates fuel or energy efficiency alongside live traffic updates and road conditions. It then calculates the most optimal route, considering both speed and fuel conservation. Even when routes vary, the app highlights the most fuel or energy-efficient option, diverging from simply showcasing the fastest route.
Disabling this feature returns Maps to prioritizing speed without considering fuel or energy efficiency. Nevertheless, even when disabled, your engine-based fuel or energy-efficiency estimates persist, flagged by a green leaf icon, spotlighting the most eco-friendly route among alternatives.
Here’s how to enable the feature:
–Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone.
–Tap your profile picture or initial.
–Go to Settings and tap on Navigation.
–Scroll to “Route options.”
–Tap “Prefer fuel-efficient routes” to turn on eco-friendly routing.
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–To select your engine type, tap “Engine type” and choose accordingly.
–Search for your destination or tap it on the map.
–In the bottom left, tap Directions.
–Swipe up on the bottom bar.
–Tap “Change engine type” and select yours.
–Confirm by tapping Done.
–Choosing Your Engine Type
It’s important to select the correct engine type as the most fuel-efficient route may differ based on this. Diesel vehicles often perform better on highways, while hybrid and electric vehicles shine in city or hilly terrains due to regenerative braking.
Considerations and Defaults
If no engine type is chosen, petrol becomes the default, being the most common engine type in many countries. For electric vehicle (EV) drivers, it’s crucial to note that energy-efficient routes do not factor in stops for charging.
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Google’s latest feature aims to offer users the option of not just reaching their destination swiftly but also in a more fuel or energy-efficient manner, catering to diverse vehicle types and driving environments.
