Google Maps recently changed its routing algorithm to favor fuel-efficient paths over the fastest paths. If you're regularly arriving later than expected, this hidden default setting is likely why.
The change sounds environmental and sensible, but it means Google is making time-vs-fuel trade-offs on your behalf by default. If your priority is reaching your destination as quickly as possible, you need to disable this setting. Here's how to take back control of your route choices.
Why Google Maps prioritizes fuel over speed
Google's fuel-efficient routing analyzes driving patterns and terrain to minimize gas consumption. The algorithm favors routes with steady acceleration, consistent speeds, and minimal braking. In theory, this helps your engine run efficiently and saves money on gas.
The problem emerges in real-world driving. A route that avoids highway on-ramps to reduce acceleration might add 10 minutes to your commute. A path that circles around congestion to maintain steady speed could cost you 15 minutes versus powering through traffic.
Google assumes that if you save fuel on a route, time savings are less important. But for commuters, delivery drivers, or anyone with time-sensitive travel, this assumption backfires.
Here's how to get the fastest routes back on Google Maps
Disable fuel-efficient routing
Open Google Maps and tap your profile icon in the top right. Select Settings, Navigation, then scroll to "Prefer fuel-efficient routes" and toggle it off. Google Maps will now default to your fastest available route.
This applies to all future navigation automatically. You won't see the leaf icon labeling fuel-efficient options, and the fastest route becomes the default suggestion.
Choose routes individually if you want flexibility
If you don't want to turn the feature off completely, you can keep fuel-efficient routing enabled and simply override it on a case-by-case basis.
Before hitting start, take a moment to examine all the available routes and compare their arrival times. While a fuel-efficient path might only add three to five minutes to a standard 20-minute workday commute, those lost minutes quickly multiply on a 90-minute road trip.
By checking your options first, you can choose what matters most for that specific drive.
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