How long will $100 worth of gas last? The duration that $100 worth of gas will last depends on several factors, including the fuel efficiency of the vehicle, the current price of gasoline, and the driving conditions. On average, a vehicle with fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon (mpg) will travel approximately 333 miles on $100 worth of gas. However, this figure can vary significantly based on the specific vehicle, local gasoline prices, and driving habits.

The fuel efficiency of a vehicle is a critical factor in determining how far it can travel on a given amount of fuel. Modern vehicles typically range from 15 to 50 mpg, with many new models offering over 40 mpg. For instance, a car with an average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg will travel 400 miles on $100 worth of gas, while a car with 20 mpg will cover 500 miles. Conversely, a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 15 mpg will only travel about 667 miles on the same amount of fuel.

The current price of gasoline also plays a significant role in determining how far $100 will go. In regions with higher gasoline prices, $100 will cover fewer miles than in areas with lower prices. For example, if gasoline costs $3.50 per gallon, $100 will buy approximately 28.57 gallons, which would allow a vehicle with 25 mpg fuel efficiency to travel 714 miles. However, if gasoline costs $2.50 per gallon, the same $100 would buy 40 gallons, allowing the same vehicle to travel 1,000 miles.

Driving conditions and habits also impact fuel efficiency. Aggressive driving, rapid acceleration, and excessive idling can significantly reduce fuel economy. Conversely, maintaining a consistent speed, using cruise control, and avoiding unnecessary idling can improve fuel efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, driving at higher speeds can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 15 percent, while carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle can decrease fuel economy by up to 2 percent per 100 pounds.

Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) provides further insight into the relationship between fuel efficiency and gas prices. The EIA reports that the average fuel efficiency of new vehicles sold in the United States has increased from 20.8 mpg in 1980 to 25.4 mpg in 2020. This trend is attributed to advancements in vehicle technology and increased emphasis on fuel efficiency by automakers.

In conclusion, the duration that $100 worth of gas will last varies based on the fuel efficiency of the vehicle, the current price of gasoline, and driving conditions. On average, a vehicle with 30 mpg fuel efficiency will travel approximately 333 miles on $100 worth of gas. However, this figure can be significantly higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances. By understanding these factors and adopting fuel-efficient driving habits, drivers can maximize the distance they can travel on a given amount of fuel.