Google Driving Simulator: What Makes It Fascinating?

If you’re anything like me, then you’ve always dreamed of being behind the wheel of an expensive sports car, speeding down the interstate with the wind in your hair and no destination in mind. While that’s not exactly how things work if you have to drive to work every day, Google Earth has come up with a pretty good simulation that gives you that feeling while still keeping you on track to get where you need to go each day.
Here’s your chance to learn everything you need to know about how the Google driving simulator works, who can use it, and some potential bugs you should look out for when using it.
What is Google Street View
Google Street View is a Google Maps feature that allows you to see panoramic views of streets all over the world. It’s a great way to get a feel for a new place before you visit, or to explore somewhere you’ve always wanted to go. To use Street View, simply type in an address or drag the little yellow man onto the map. He’s actually called “Pegman“.
Once you’re in Street View, you can use the arrow keys on your keyboard to move around. You can also click on the arrows that appear on the screen to change your view. The Google driving simulator works with Google Maps (what else can it use? :)). If you want to drive a car or take a bus instead of walking, you can do that too! Just click on the icon of the vehicle you want to use, and off you go.
How Does This Simulator Work?

The Google Earth driving simulator is a program that allows you to drive a car or bus through various locations around the world. The program is top-rated and has been used by many people to help them learn how to drive (still not perfect though). The program works by allowing you to select a location, and then choose a vehicle.
Once you have chosen your vehicle, you will be able to control it with the help of your keyboard or mouse. Many people find this simulator useful because they can take their time and explore at their own pace without having to worry about other drivers or accidents.
Even though it’s not a game, it just seems like there are levels in this simulator; easy and hard. If you want to just explore the terrain with no pressure, choose the easy mode. However, if you want a challenge while using the simulator, choose the hard mode which includes difficult situations such as icy roads, sand storms, and more!
How Do I Access Google Driving Simulator?
The Google driving simulator is a part of the Google Maps application. Below is a guide on how to access it (Note that this guide may change due to continuous updates made by Google on all their applications).
To access it, open up Google Maps and zoom in on any location. Then, click on the Directions icon and input your starting location and destination. On the next page, click on the Options tab and select Driving Simulator from the drop-down menu. The driving simulator will then launch in a new window.
There are three different types of cars you can drive: pickup truck, sports car, or minivan. If you choose one of these vehicles, they will be available for all locations that have been plotted out by Google Maps so far. If you decide to use one of the other vehicles that can be driven on streets such as bicycles or motorcycles, you’ll need to get off at a street corner first and switch between the vehicle types before entering another road segment.
There are five different buttons located below the street map which allow you to control your vehicle: accelerate, brake/reverse gearshift (e), turn signal (s), horn (h), gas pump (g). Use these buttons as necessary for driving.
How To Drive on Street View
The Google Earth driving simulator is a great way to explore Street View in a fun and interactive way. To start, simply type in an address or drag the Pegman onto a street. Then use the WASD keys or your mouse to navigate down the road. You can also click on icons to learn more about points of interest along the way. And if you want to explore a different area, just type in a new address or click on the map. So grab your keys and hit the virtual open road!
If you need some inspiration for where to go, here are some of my favorite destinations:
- Big Sur coast: drive through scenic coastal roads with panoramic views.
- The Mall at the Pointe: explore this classic mall located in Alpharetta, Georgia.
- Oak Alley Plantation: get lost among moss draped oaks and centuries old live oaks as you make your way through one of America’s most beautiful plantations.
- San Francisco Bay Area: take a trip to northern California and head south to visit Alcatraz Island or north to experience the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: see one of America’s most popular national parks from either side of it–the Cades Cove side or the Gatlinburg side.
Known Bugs in The Simulator
The Google Earth driving simulator is a great tool for those who want to learn how to use Google Earth. However, there are a few known bugs in the simulator that can cause problems for users.
- The roads in the simulator are not always accurate. This can lead to users getting lost or going off-road.
- The traffic in the simulator is not always realistic. This can cause users to get into accidents or get stuck in traffic jams.
- The map in the simulator is not always up-to-date. This can cause users to miss turns or end up in different locations than they intended.
- The weather in the simulator is not always accurate. This can cause users to have difficulty driving in certain conditions.
- The speed limits in the simulator are not always accurate. Users may be traveling faster than they should be on a highway or slower than they should be on a side street.
These limitations make it difficult for some people to navigate through the software successfully and thus might need more practice before attempting to drive around an unfamiliar city with this app. It is already known that Google Map data isn’t real-time and as a result, some of the locations wouldn’t be accurate.
Read more on Google Maps Update here.
Does It Cost Anything To Run A Google Driving Simulator?
The Google driving simulator is a FREE online tool that you can use to practice your driving skills. The simulator uses Google Maps data to create realistic environments for you to drive in, and you can choose from a variety of different vehicles to drive. You can also set up custom routes and challenges to really test your skills. So, whether you’re a new driver or just want to brush up on your skills, the Google driving simulator is a great option.
Final Words
The Google Earth driving simulator is a powerful tool that can be used to improve your driving skills. However, it is important to remember that this simulator is not a replacement for real-world experience. In order to become a better driver, you must practice in both the simulator and in real life. Thanks for reading and be sure to drive safely!
About The Author

Williams Alfred Onen
Williams Alfred Onen is a degree-holding computer science software engineer with a passion for technology and extensive knowledge in the tech field. With a history of providing innovative solutions to complex tech problems, Williams stays ahead of the curve by continuously seeking new knowledge and skills. He shares his insights on technology through his blog and is dedicated to helping others bring their tech visions to life.