Maximize Fuel Efficiency with Google Maps: How to Use the Fuel Economy Feature
When navigating to new or distant destinations using Google Maps, you might find yourself taking longer routes that consume more fuel. Fortunately, Google Maps offers a solution to this problem with its Fuel Economy feature, designed to help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint during your trip.
Understanding the Google Maps Fuel Economy Feature
The Fuel Economy feature in Google Maps is a valuable tool for choosing routes that are more fuel-efficient. Here’s how it works:
- Fuel-Efficient Routes: This feature identifies and suggests routes that consume less fuel, even if they are not the fastest option. By following these routes, you can improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and lower your fuel expenses.
- Environmental Benefits: The green leaf icon next to the distance on the app indicates routes that are better for the environment. This helps in reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly driving.
- Customizable Options: Google Maps tailors recommendations based on your vehicle type (petrol, diesel, electric, or hybrid) and driving conditions, providing you with the most suitable route for your car’s fuel economy.
How to Activate and Use the Fuel Economy Feature
To start benefiting from Google Maps’ Fuel Economy feature, follow these steps:
- Open Google Maps: Launch the Google Maps app on your smartphone.
- Access Settings: Tap on your profile picture icon in the top right corner.
- Navigate to Navigation Settings: Select “Settings” from the menu, then tap on “Navigation,” and scroll down to find “Route options.”
- Enable Fuel-Efficient Routes: Toggle the option for “Prefer fuel-efficient routes” to enable this feature.
- Select Your Vehicle Type: Choose the type of engine your vehicle uses—petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric.
- Plan Your Route: Enter your destination in the app and tap on “Directions.”
- View Fuel-Efficient Routes: Google Maps will now display routes optimized for fuel economy, marked with a green leaf icon. You can also adjust the engine type by tapping “Change engine type” if needed.
