In 2011, people in the United Statues used 134 billion gallons (507 billion liters) of gasoline, more than the combined usage of Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. Still, that number was 6% lower than it was in 2007, which was the peak year for gasoline consumption in the US. Experts offer several explanations for the United States' high gasoline use, including its relatively low fuel prices, lower taxes on cars and the fact that folks in the US drive longer distances than people in most other countries do.
More about gasoline:
- Some experts say the decline in gas consumption from 2007 to 2011 was the result of higher gas prices.
- A lack of adequate public transportation in the US contributes to people driving more than in other countries.
- In 2012, the US Energy Information Administration estimated that, without any changes in consumption rates, the US had enough natural gas to last 92 more years.
