Green Car Smartphone Apps by Dale Cooper

Top Four Smartphone Apps for the Green Driver

Green car and smartphone technologies are advancing at an unprecedented rate, and now there are more chances than ever to use the two together. We use smartphones for everything: email, internet, navigation and even automotive diagnostics. If you own an alternative energy vehicle, or just want to make your gas-powered car a little greener, check out these smartphone apps.

1. Gas station finder: You probably know all of the gas stations in your neighborhood, but what if you’re on a road trip or visiting an unfamiliar city? Instead of driving around looking for a station and wasting fuel, download a gas station locator smartphone app. Several of these apps will even provide gas prices, so you can be sure to find the best deal.

1. GPS navigation: You may not think of a GPS smartphone app as being green, but it can definitely help reduce your carbon footprint. GPS navigation apps show you the most direct route to your location, so you’re using as little fuel as possible.

1. Automotive diagnostics: Before smartphones came along, it was necessary to take your vehicle to a mechanic for diagnostic tests. Mechanics have specialized equipment that plug into the vehicle and generate data that report how well the car is running. Now, you can do the same thing with a smartphone app and an adaptor. The small, affordable adaptor allows you to plug your smartphone directly into the vehicle, and see all of the same information a mechanic does. If you’re mechanically inclined, this is a great way to monitor your vehicle and make sure it’s running efficiently.
2. Charging station finder: If you own an electric vehicle, a charging station location smartphone app is a must-have. Green car owners can easily find nearby charging stations so they’re not stranded with a dead battery. Since current electric cars have about a third of the range of a gas-powered car, this app is necessary for longer drives.

One of the great things about making your vehicle as green as possible is the money you save. Using less fuel and making sure your engine is running efficiently are not only great for the environment, but also they’re great for your wallet, too. To save even more on automotive expenses, compare online auto insurance quotes, and find an insurance company that offers the coverage you need at the best price.