This Easter Bank Holiday weekend looks set to be one of the busiest on record, with more than 21 million motorists planning to hit the road.
According to research by the RAC, Good Friday alone could see in excess of 4.62 million leisure trips.
Given the high likelihood of traffic jams, drivers are being encouraged to download the What3Words smartphone app to assist with navigation.
Navigation squared
What3Words says its free app will allow drivers to communicate their exact location, so emergency and breakdown services can locate them quickly and efficiently.
The app works by dividing the earth into 57 trillion three-metre (10-foot) squares. Each square is then assigned a unique combination of three words, meaning non-traditional addresses can be identified.
The system is used by 85 percent of the UK’s emergency services, along with roadside assistance providers such as the AA and LV= Britannia Rescue.
Good enough for Lamborghini
What3Words can be downloaded to both Apple iOS and Android smartphone devices.
Automotive manufacturers have started adding the software to their cars, including Ford and Mercedes-Benz. In 2021, Lamborghini made the software part of the navigation system for its Huracan supercar.
Aftermarket companies are also able to offer in-car downloads of the service.
Despite its popularity, some have expressed concern that What3Words can lead to wrong locations being given. Mountain rescue teams have highlighted the potential for words to be misspelled or misheard, especially when spoken with strong accents.
ALSO READ:
Smart is back – with new #1 electric small SUV
