How Much Gasoline Do Americans Use?

In 2011, people in the United Statues used 134 billion gallons (507 billion liters) of gasoline, more than the combined usage of Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. Still, that number was 6% lower than it was in 2007, which was the peak year for gasoline consumption in the US. Experts offer several explanations for the United States' high gasoline use, including its relatively low fuel prices, lower taxes on cars and the fact that folks in the US drive longer distances than people in most other countries do.

More about gasoline:

  • Some experts say the decline in gas consumption from 2007 to 2011 was the result of higher gas prices.

  • A lack of adequate public transportation in the US contributes to people driving more than in other countries.

  • In 2012, the US Energy Information Administration estimated that, without any changes in consumption rates, the US had enough natural gas to last 92 more years.

More Info: www.eia.gov

Discussion Comments

anon301505

Maybe they will start taking public transport or take flights which have increased in number. Secondly the difference between self-driving and traveling on public transport is that one can rest with eyes closed and wake up fresh, and work better. Self-driving involves greater chances of risk, too. --mdj

anon300603

Weren't there fewer people going to work during this period? How does that factor in?

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