U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Vehicle Technologies Program

Fact #395: October 24, 2005
Effect of High Gasoline Prices on Consumers

In a recent survey, 44% of respondents indicated that they would drive less in response to high gasoline prices. Thirty-one percent of respondents said that if gasoline prices remain high, they would reduce miles traveled by 26% or more. In addition, 54% of respondents said that if gasoline prices remain high, their next vehicle should have 50% more fuel economy than their current vehicle. The graph below compares the answers of all respondents to respondents who plan to purchase a small car and respondents who plan to purchase an SUV.

Consumer Views on High Gasoline Prices
Graph with recent survey results from respondents indicating driving habits and automobile purchase choice if gasoline prices remain high.

Supporting Information

Consumer Views on High Gasoline Prices
  Share of Respondents
  All
respondents 		Respondents who plan to purchase a small car Respondents who plan to purchase an SUV
Would drive less due to high gasoline prices 44% 54% 33%
If gasoline prices remain high, would reduce miles traveled by 26% or more 31% 35% 22%
If gasoline prices remain high, next vehicle would have 50% or greater fuel economy 54% 65% 53%

Source: Opinion Research Corporation for National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Study #714388 (N =1049), September 22, 2005.

 

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