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Rising Gas Prices Are Not Changing Driving Habits, Story Claims

12 October 2000

Although gas prices have tripled in the last few years, few Americans allegedly have changed their driving habits, according to a report in the New York Times. The article cites data from the U.S. government and the auto industry that reportedly shows Americans are on par to use as much gasoline as they did in record setting 1999. According to experts, motorists' minimal reactions to higher fuel prices include the cancellation of unnecessary trips and a change-over from premium to regular gasoline. The Times cites the marked difference between today's fuel crunch and the fuel crisis of the 70's - when consumers embraced both fuel efficiency and public transportation.