Colour screens built...

Colour screens built into petrol dispensers in the US will allow customers to look up local points of interest and get directions via a live Internet connection. And the devices not only display maps and routes; they even provide print-outs.

Around 3,500 of the Encore S set-ups – nicknamed ‘gPumps’ – will be springing up all over America, and a similar set-up is likely to come here. The gPumps are made by forecourt equipment supplier Gilbarco. The idea was developed as a merchandising tool to provide promotions and advertisements while fuel is being dispensed. But the Google Maps feature has been added to help attract customers.

Gilbarco’s Kirsten Paust said, “Getting directions at the pump is safer than using Web-enabled devices from the driver’s seat. It’s much more reliable than asking a stranger, too. Retailers who use these tools will make themselves more valuable to consumers, and gain a competitive edge.”

Eventually, Gilbarco wants motorists to be able to type in any address of their choice – but for the moment, they will have to make do with a pre-selected list of points of interest or a standard map.