Why the shortest routes aren't always the most fuel-efficient when driving

In a new update, the Google Maps application is offering users in Europe a feature that shows the most fuel-efficient route. This route is not necessarily the shortest or fastest. Indeed, several factors come into play in the consumption of fuel (or electricity), not just the distance traveled.

Fuel consumption depends on many variables, such as the average speed of the vehicle, the gradient of the roads, the number of passengers and the load on board, or the various stops made along the way. By taking into account each of these factors, it is possible to make fuel savings.

For example, it is advisable to drive up to 10 km/h slower than the authorized speed limit to save fuel. Similarly, it is better to drive on national highways than on highways with high speed limits, where cars go faster and which are therefore more fuel-intensive.

Generally, the way you drive can have a significant impact on fuel consumption. It is therefore advisable to adopt eco-driving techniques, which involve driving smoothly, without sudden accelerations or braking. This can reduce fuel consumption by 10% to 15%.

For all these reasons, it's now possible to choose an alternative route, which may, perhaps, be a little longer, but which should help you save fuel and therefore money.

Find out how to save fuel thanks to Google Maps and how to save fuel by changing your driving style.