Google and gas pump maker Gilbarco Veeder-Root have announced a partnership that will bring Google Maps down to earth and provide driving directions, local search, and coupons to 3,500 Internet-enabled gas pumps across the US.
“Getting directions at the pump is safer than using internet-enabled devices from the driver’s seat and far more reliable than just asking a stranger,” said Kirsten Paust, vice president of global retail systems at Gilbarco Veeder-Root in a press release. “We believe consumers will prefer convenience stores that deliver useful information and ultimate convenience. Retailers who use these tools will make themselves more valuable to consumers and gain the competitive edge.”
Google’s service supposedly won’t include ads, but retailers can offer coupons through gas pumps, which will make money for participating filling stations — you know, kind of like ads. For now, the pumps can only print directions to locations available through Google’s local search results, but Gilbarco Veeder-Root eventually hopes to allow motorists to type in destinations at the pump.
The Google-powered gas pumps should begin to be rolled out across the US early next month.
Photo by Gilbarco Veeder-Root.
Stacy O'Quinn on November 8th, 2007 at 12:57 pm
That is an awesome idea. Now quick question will that slow the demand and market for GPS sales? Of course it would not replace a GPS but to get directions as easy as driving up to a gas pump it is definately a much easier option. Then asking someone.
Whether it affects GPS sales or not. What do you think the customer traffic rate would increase on major tourist destinations with Gas Stations that have these pumps?