Google Maps can now help you save fuel while driving: Here’s how it works

Since the advent of Google Maps, traveling has undoubtedly become quite convenient. Available on Android devices, this application helps users predict travel time as well as find the best route to their destination. Google Maps recently introduced a new feature that aims to save fuel while traveling.

This feature, known as Eco-Friendly Routing, was introduced in September 2022 and was initially made available in the United States, Europe, and Canada. The ‘Save Fuel’ option is now available for Indian users as well.

This feature has to be enabled manually on the Google Maps application. It helps provide estimated fuel or energy efficiency based on the engine configuration and other aspects of the vehicle. The feature also evaluates certain route factors including real-time traffic, route ease and road conditions.

Once analyzed, the application will show the best route by not only considering the estimated time but also identifying the most energy-efficient option. Thus, it may sometimes differ from the fastest route.

When this feature is turned off, Google Maps will only help find the fastest route, without taking into account energy or fuel efficiency. However, users can see the most fuel-efficient route out of all the options as it will be highlighted by a green leaf logo.

Steps to activate ‘Save Fuel’ feature on Google Maps

1. Open the Google Maps app on your device.

2. Click on the profile picture or initial name on the right top corner.

3. Go to ‘Navigation’ from Settings.

4. Scroll up to find ‘Root Options’

5. Click ‘Prioritize fuel-efficient routes’ to activate eco-friendly routing.

6. On the next page select ‘Engine Type’ as per your choice

Steps to use ‘Save Fuel’ feature on Google Maps

1. Go to Google Maps application

2. Type the name of your destination in the search box or tap the location on the map

3. Click on ‘Guidelines’ available at the bottom left

4. Swipe up to find the option ‘Change engine type’

5. Choose engine type as per your vehicle – Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid or Electric

According to the information available on Google’s support page, if a user does not manually select the engine type, petrol will be set as the default option as it is the most common powertrain across the country. The feature is similar for electric vehicles but it will not show charging spots on energy-efficient routes.