A State-by-State Analysis of Gasoline Consumption and EV Adoption
Despite the Biden administration's push for electric vehicles to combat climate change, America is still heavily reliant on gasoline. The amount of gas consumed by residents in a state depends on various factors such as travel distance, available public transportation, and gas tax rates. Additionally, state subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs) and the availability of charging stations influence EV adoption rates.
While gas prices have slightly decreased in recent weeks, they remain high compared to a few months ago when the national average reached $5 per gallon in June 2022. Factors contributing to this spike include increased demand post-COVID-19, slow oil production recovery, and U.S. sanctions on Russia. Despite a temporary decrease in gas prices, the national average of $3.68 per gallon on September 21, 2022, marked a significant rise from $3.19 at the same time the previous year.
In 2021, the U.S. saw over 350,000 gallons of gas sold daily, reflecting a 22% increase since 1983. Surprisingly, the pandemic, rising prices, and the promise of reduced vehicle fuel dependency through EVs did not deter the public from continuous travel. However, some states stood out in terms of high gas consumption. Rate Genius analyzed Energy Information Administration data on the top 5 states with the highest daily gasoline sales in 2021. Here are some highlights from the analysis:
1. Alabama:
Average gasoline sales: 6.8 million gallons per day (135.0 per 100 people).
Gasoline consumption is 1.3 times the national average.
Only 0.1% of vehicles registered in Alabama in 2021 were electric.
Alabama has an EV infrastructure plan and allocated funds to install more charging stations. Gas prices are below the national average, and the state's gas tax is lower.
2. Mississippi:
Average gasoline sales: 4.03 million gallons per day (136.7 per 100 people).
Gasoline consumption is 1.3 times the national average.
Mississippi has the lowest ratio of electric vehicles, but it will receive funding for charging stations.
Mississippi lacks EV incentives but has received funds to modernize its public transit system. Gas prices are below the national average, and the gas tax is lower.
3. Oklahoma:
Average gasoline sales: 5.49 million gallons per day (137.8 per 100 people).
Gasoline consumption is 1.3 times the national average.
Oklahoma leads in Level 3 charging stations and offers rebates for EV owners.
Oklahoma, known for oil and gas, has a growing EV infrastructure. Gas prices are below the national average, and the gas tax is low.
4. South Dakota:
Average gasoline sales: 1.25 million gallons per day (139.5 per 100 people).
Gasoline consumption is 1.3 times the national average.
South Dakota is investing in an EV charging network but has a limited number of charging locations.
South Dakota's gas prices and taxes are slightly above the national average, but additional fees are relatively low.
5. Delaware:
Average gasoline sales: 1.42 million gallons per day (141.3 per 100 people).
Gasoline consumption is 1.3 times the national average.
Delaware incentivizes alternative fuels and vehicles, with rebates and legislative support.
Delaware encourages the transition to alternative fuels, with gas prices and the gas tax below the national average.
As we traverse the complex landscape of America's fuel consumption, it's evident that gasoline still reigns supreme despite the Biden administration's push towards electric vehicles (EVs) for environmental sustainability. Our analysis of the top gas-consuming states in 2021 reveals intriguing patterns, with Alabama, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Delaware emerging as notable players in this energy consumption saga. Despite the nationwide fluctuations in gas prices and the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, the resilience of gas-powered vehicles remains striking. States like Alabama and Mississippi, with minimal electric vehicle penetration, showcase the challenges in transitioning to cleaner alternatives. However, encouraging signs emerge, such as Oklahoma leading in Level 3 charging stations and Delaware's proactive measures to incentivize alternative fuels. Learn more about Efficient Fuel Delivery from Successful Operations around USA.
As we stand at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, the future promises change. The push for EV adoption is gaining momentum, evident in infrastructure investments and rebate programs across states like Delaware and Rhode Island. The evolving dynamics of gas consumption, electric vehicle infrastructure, and policy interventions underscore a shifting narrative. The journey towards sustainable transportation is undoubtedly challenging, with each state steering its course. While gas prices and taxes fluctuate, and EV adoption faces hurdles, the commitment to change is palpable. America's roadways are evolving, with both gas-powered behemoths and electric pioneers sharing the asphalt. Only time will unveil the destination of this transformative journey as we collectively navigate the roads ahead.