Google today announced a new feature for its Maps service. The app will now show the most fuel-efficient route to your destination even if it isn’t the fastest.
The update uses AI as well as insights from the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to show users the greenest route to their destination. Per the Guardian, the app takes inclines and traffic into account while making its decision.
“Not only does Google Maps‘ eco-friendly routing bring NREL’s fuel-efficient technology from the lab to the road, but it has huge potential to significantly lower emissions and save drivers money on gas—something that’s good for both people and the planet.”
Read Also: Honda Collaborating With Google To Embed Connected Services In All-New Model Coming In 2022
Google estimates that the new feature could save more than a million tons of carbon emissions per year, the equivalent of taking more than 200,000 cars off the road. Users can see an estimate of how much CO2 they are saving on the efficient route and can also make their Maps app default to either the most efficient or the fastest route depending on their priorities.
The tech company says it will roll the feature out in the U.S. first, with Europe and other markets set to follow.
The app has also introduced new features for cyclists that only show the most important instructions so as not to overwhelm them with information on the go. It will also show information about bike and scooter-share programs in 300 cities around the world and will enable Google Maps users to find nearby stations and even pinpoint how many vehicles are available at that moment.
Finally, Google has also introduced a feature to its flight planning service that can organize your flight options to prioritize those with the least carbon emissions.
