# Google Maps navigation and routing features

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/google-maps-navigation-and-routing-features
> Updated: 2026-09-27T13:34:47.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Google Maps provides various features to assist users with route optimization and travel planning.

One setting, ‘Prefer fuel-efficient routes’, is designed to reduce environmental emissions by suggesting routes that prioritize fuel economy, though this may result in slower travel times compared to the fastest options. Users can toggle this feature off in the navigation settings to prioritize speed.

Additionally, the application allows users to predict traffic conditions by setting specific departure or arrival times. This tool enables travelers to simulate trips and compare estimated durations based on predicted traffic patterns, helping them identify the most efficient windows for travel before they begin their journey.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-27: Google Maps feature allows users to predict traffic by setting departure times

Google Maps allows users to predict traffic by setting specific departure or arrival times, helping travelers avoid congestion through proactive trip planning.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/google-maps-feature-allows-users-to-predict-traffic-by-setting-departure-times

### 2026-09-21: Google Maps setting may affect travel time optimization

Users can optimize their travel time on Google Maps by disabling the ‘Prefer fuel-efficient routes’ setting, which may otherwise suggest slower paths to save fuel.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/google-maps-setting-may-affect-travel-time-optimization

---
Cite as: Google Maps navigation and routing features. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/google-maps-navigation-and-routing-features