ecoRoute for Garmin GPS

Today via Twitter (thx @thebuma!) I found out that Garmin has this awesome (free) software update for some of their GPS models called ecoRoute. It is a very very cool feature to have on a GPS.

So this software update helps you find more fuel efficient routes and also helps to track your fuel usage. With ecoRoute, there is a “less fuel” option as a routing preference. When selected, the GPS will determine if more fuel efficient routes exist based upon road speed data and vehicle acceleration data for a given route.

This option is perfect for me, because I’d rather consume less fuel when I’m out driving, than try to get somewhere in the fastest amount of time. Better for my wallet and for the environment.

If you have a Garmin nüvi 205, 705, 1200 or 1300 series GPS, your unit is eligible for the software upgrade. Since the model I want is in the 205 series, mine will be able to get the download. And since it dropped again in price with Amazon, I think I’m going to go for it and spend those Amazon gift cards to get it. Probably this week. :)