Higher gasoline prices are a combination of greater dependence on foreign oil, a decision by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to reduce oil production, increased summer demand for gasoline, and the increase of fuel inefficient SUVs and light trucks, on US roads today, notes the Alliance.

    “We will not solve the energy crisis by drilling alone. There's more 'oil' in Detroit and Washington, D.C. than in other countries,” stated Alliance President David M. Nemtzow pointing to what automakers and Congress can do, “SUVs and light trucks must be more fuel efficient and come under the same efficiency standards as cars.”

    To help consumers deal with the price hikes, the Alliance to Save Energy has these Power$mart tips for consumers that improve fuel economy and decrease total gasoline bills:

• Think high gas mileage if buying a new vehicle. Check out the Department of Energy website www.fueleconomy.com) and the ACEEE website (www.greenercars.com) for more information on fuel-efficient vehicles.
• Keep your car properly tuned up and change your air filter.
• Properly inflate tires. Underinflated tires (4) can increase fuel consumption by six percent, according to the AAA www.aaa.com).
• Drive a little slower for each mph you drive less than 65, you save about two percent in gasoline consumption.
• If your vehicle has an overdrive gear use it. Overdrive gears reduce your engine's speed and decrease fuel consumption and engine wear www.fueleconomy.com).
• Use cruise control on highway trips to help reduce fuel consumption.
• Pack lightly when traveling and avoid carrying items on the vehicle's roof.
• Avoid jackrabbit starts: accelerate slowly when starting from a dead start.
• If you own more than one vehicle, drive the one that gets the best gas mileage whenever possible.
• Combine your errands into one trip to save on fuel.
• Use your car air conditioner sparingly.
• If possible take advantage of car-pools and public transportation.