While Driving Safely And Protecting The Environment Courtesy of the AAA Auto Club South Automobile manufacturers have increased the overall energy efficiency of the vehicles they sell. These gains have been offset as Americans continue to purchase larger, less fuel-efficient cars, trucks and sport utility vehicles. Therefore, average fuel efficiency of new vehicles has remained almost unchanged in the last 10 years - about 20 miles per gallon.
Motorists also continue to drive more each year.
The average vehicle is driven 11,725 miles per year, compared to 10,277 miles in 1990. Per-vehicle gasoline use has also climbed from 506 gallons per year in 1990 to 603 gallons in 1999. Reduced gasoline consumption saves money and time. It can lessen driving stress and create a cleaner and safer environment. This brochure offers ways to be a consistent and effective gas watcher.