Google Maps Launches Eco-Friendly Routing Feature In India (Image: Pixabay)

Google Maps, one of the most popular navigation apps, has recently introduced a “fuel-saving” feature in India. This feature, named eco-friendly routing, is able to provide estimates of fuel or energy efficiency for different routes based on the vehicle”s engine type. Google debuted this feature in 2021, and it was initially limited to the US, Canada, and Europe.

The tech giant mentioned in its support page that if this feature is turned on, Google Maps will use fuel or energy efficiency on top of other factors like real-time traffic and road conditions to choose the best route for the users. “So besides showing you the fastest route, it will also show you the most efficient one, even if they aren”t the same,” added Google. This simply means that the eco-friendly routing feature provides drivers with the choice between the fastest and most fuel-efficient route.

If users choose to turn this feature off, they always get the fastest route, and Google Maps will ignore the fuel or energy efficiency factor for route recommendations. At the same time, fuel or energy-efficiency estimates and a green leaf icon will still appear to spotlight the most fuel or energy-efficient route among all alternatives.

How To Enable This Feature
1) Open the Google Maps app on your mobile device.
2) Tap on your profile picture.
3) Go to settings and click on navigation.
4) Scroll to “Route options.”
5) Click on “Prefer fuel-efficient routes” to turn on the eco-friendly routing feature.
6) Tap “Engine type” and choose accordingly to choose your engine type.

How To Use This Feature
1) Open the Google Maps app.
2) Search for your destination or tap it on the map.
3) In the bottom left, tap Directions.
4) In the bottom bar, swipe up.
5) Click on “Change engine type.”
6) Select your engine type and then tap “Done.”
7) Choose the engine type: petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric.