When the price of crude oil hit $147 a barrel in the USA, petrol prices soared to around $4 a gallon. However, since those dramatic rises the price at the pump has plummeted – but it seems the message about greener driving still holds resonance with motorists.
A survey by the Consumer Federation of America, found that motorists want more fuel efficient cars even though gas prices have slumped. It also found that more people worry about global warming than last year and there is genuine concern about the country’s dependence on oil from the Middle East.
According to Jack Gillis, a CFA spokesman, drivers were forced to change their attitudes and many even adjusted their driving styles during the oil price crisis – such as by combining their errands or avoiding quick trips.
They found that there was little impact on their lives and so they are willing to continue to make those changes.
The results of the survey saw 55 per cent express concern about global warming – up from 52 per cent last year; while 76 per cent are concerned about America’s dependence on Middle Eastern oil. Around 76 per cent also said that they were still concerned about gas prices – a drop from last year’s 85 per cent but still an impressively high number.
The survey also revealed that 27 per cent would look for a model that could achieve between 25 and 30 miles per gallon when shopping for a new car – showing a healthier demand for smaller, greener and more fuel efficient vehicles.
