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Keeping the Car Running Better and Driving it Less is the Trend
BETHESDA, Md., Feb. 27, 2008; If gasoline prices hit$4 per gallon as many economists predict, an estimated 65 percent ofAmerican car owners say they will dramatically change their drivingbehavior, according to a study commissioned by the Automotive AftermarketIndustry Association (AAIA).
"While a third of consumers claim they already changed their drivingbehavior by curtailing driving or maintaining their vehicle better when gasprices reached $3 a gallon, the real tipping point is $4 a gallon," saidKathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO.
According to a survey conducted by Opinion Research Corporation forAAIA, 91 percent of drivers are driving less and 75 percent are maintainingtheir vehicle better because of rising gas prices. Other specificbehavioral changes were carpooling (31 percent), purchasing more fuelefficient vehicles (30 percent) and making greater use of publictransportation (24 percent).
For more information on the survey, e-mail Rich White atrich.white@aftermarket.org or call 301-654-6664.
For more information on tips and advice for simple vehicle maintenanceand care to improve gas mileage, contact the Car Care Council athttp://www.carcare.org/.
About AAIA
AAIA is a Bethesda, Md.-based association whose more than 23,000 memberand affiliates manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts,accessories, service, tool, equipment, materials and supplies. Through itsmembership, AAIA represents more than 100,000 repair shops, parts storesand distribution outlets.
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