In an effort to get users to get to their destination by bus or train instead of driving, or better yet, use their own feet, Google Maps will have a new feature. In addition to driving routes, the application will display public transport and walking alternatives that will get users to their destination without having to "jump" behind the wheel. These alternatives will appear "if travel times are comparable and practical". Google announced it today in a new blog post.
Alternative public transport and walking suggestions will appear at the bottom of the screen under the "Consider Also" tab, which will include a preview of recommended alternative actions. The card will also let the user know if any of these alternatives are faster than driving. The goal is to find alternative routes that use less carbon. The feature will be available in 15 cities around the world in the next few weeks, including Amsterdam, Barcelona, London, Montreal, Paris, Rome or Sydney.
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In addition, Google Maps is getting a feature that will help users find more information about long-distance train and bus routes in search. For example, if you search for "train from Boston to Philadelphia," the results page will show you timetables and ticket prices, along with links to book your trip. This feature is available for trains in 38 countries including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Germany, Hungary, France, Italy, Great Britain or the USA and for bus routes in 15 countries including Poland, Germany, Sweden, France, Italy, Spain, Ukraine, Great Britain, USA or Canada.
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From the above, it follows that Google is trying to provide people informace, which they need to choose a low-carbon alternative when traveling.
