New Google Maps Feature Gets a Green Light

Google Maps can not only help truckers and passenger vehicles find the quickest route from point A to point B, but now it also gets them there greener. Google has introduced a series of new features including eco-friendly routes that provide Google Maps users with more fuel-efficient navigation. The app determines fuel consumption for every route, and then suggests the most efficient option based on factors such as road incline and traffic congestion.

This will be the default route calculation mode going forward, but users can still switch to the fastest route in their settings. The feature will launch in the United States later in 2021 for both Android and iOS.

Google Maps will also launch a new weather layer, allowing users to see real-time weather information. The app will show the forecast for each area, making it easier to plan routes accordingly. This feature will be released on Android and iOS in 2021 based on data provided by The Weather Company, AirNow.gov, and the Central Pollution Board.