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

Vehicle Technologies Program

Fact #448: December 18, 2006
Fuel Purchasing Habits

In a survey conducted in July 2006, 13% of respondents answered that they will drive around to find a gasoline station with the lowest price, even if it is not convenient. Another 31% will find the lowest price at a convenient station. Convenience, regardless of price, was chosen by 10% of survey respondents. Twenty-seven percent indicated that they always use their regular station.

Motivating Factors when Purchasing Fuel
Graph showing the fuel purchasing habits of respondents from a survey taken in July 2006. For more detailed information, see the table below.

Supporting Information

Motivating Factors when Purchasing Fuel Share of Respondents
Will go to a convenient station with the lowest price 31%
Will drive around to find the station with the lowest price, even if it is not convenient 13%
Will always go to their regular station 27%
Will go to the most convenient station regardless of price 10%
Will go to a station offering a major brand if the price is competitive 13%
Will look for a station offering a major brand regardless of price 3%

Source: Caravan Survey, July 27-31, 2006, N=2,026. Results of survey published in the "Caravan Saray," Fall 2006.

 

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