The fastest, shortest, and most fuel-efficient routes can be three different roads. Choose based on the trip's constraint, then compare the tradeoff in minutes, miles, tolls, and expected energy.
What each label really optimizes
| Route type | Primary goal | Can be worse when |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest | Lowest predicted travel time | Tolls, distance, or volatility are high |
| Shortest | Fewest miles or kilometers | Local streets add stops and low speeds |
| Fuel-efficient | Lower estimated fuel or energy use | The estimate does not match the vehicle or adds too much time |
Use the fastest route for fixed arrivals
Choose it when the time advantage is meaningful and the route is suitable. Add a buffer; “fastest” is still a prediction. Check tolls and whether a traffic incident is responsible for sending the route onto unfamiliar roads.
Use the shortest route carefully
Fewer miles can mean more traffic lights, turns, steep grades, pedestrians, and residential streets. A short route is useful when distance directly drives cost or range, but preview the road type and travel time before selecting it.
Use efficiency estimates as a comparison
Google Maps can highlight an efficient alternative based on engine type, traffic, hills, and road type in supported regions. Google notes that its EV-efficient route does not add charging stops. See eco-friendly routes documentation.
Compare two routes with simple numbers
Suppose Route A is 48 miles and 55 minutes; Route B is 42 miles and 66 minutes. The shorter route saves six miles but costs eleven minutes. Estimate fuel for each route using:
Fuel used = route distance ÷ expected miles per gallon.
Adjust expected efficiency when one route has stop-and-go traffic, high speed, elevation, or towing. For an EV, compare predicted arrival charge in the vehicle planner rather than converting only from rated range.
A practical decision order
- Remove routes that are illegal or unsuitable.
- Protect the required arrival time.
- Compare tolls and total operating cost.
- Check route complexity and current conditions.
- Select the remaining route that best matches the trip.
Related guidance
- Calculate route cost beyond mileage
- Compare an avoided-road alternative
- Change departure time before changing roads
Reviewed July 19, 2026. Efficiency estimates vary with vehicle, load, driving, weather, and road conditions.