Sunday, May 07, 2006
Cost of Gas and Cost of Driving
Average gas prices in the US have gone up almost 10% in the last month, and about 33% in the last year. The average American driver therefore will spend around $433.80 more on gas this year than last year.
An average ten mile trip today costs about $1.40 ($2.895 / 20 MPG = $0.14 per mile); a year ago it cost around $1.09. In some cities it costs more (e.g., New York ~ $1.60, Los Angeles ~ $1.70, Chicago ~ $1.50).
Drivers are expected to drive 1000 miles a month, 12K a year. This translates to ~$144.75 a month, ~$1,737.00 a year at todays prices, ~$1,303.20 one year ago. Steps to improve gas mileage include:
An average ten mile trip today costs about $1.40 ($2.895 / 20 MPG = $0.14 per mile); a year ago it cost around $1.09. In some cities it costs more (e.g., New York ~ $1.60, Los Angeles ~ $1.70, Chicago ~ $1.50).
Drivers are expected to drive 1000 miles a month, 12K a year. This translates to ~$144.75 a month, ~$1,737.00 a year at todays prices, ~$1,303.20 one year ago. Steps to improve gas mileage include:
- replace air filter
- keep tires inflated properly
- use correct grade of oil
- don't speed
- avoid idling and extra weight
- use cruise control and overdrive
