People who have been following the economy know the state of gas (petrol) prices. But, I can provide a visual reinforcement of that fact, clearly showing the bumpy ride that gas prices have followed over the year. The following graph is plotted using data collected by me over the last one year on gas prices in the Southern California region (in Los Angeles County and Orange County). The way i collect the data is by diligently recording the date, the mileage since the last fuel fill, price of gas, gallons filled and location every time i visit a gas station to refill my car . This data helps me keep a check on my car's fuel efficiency and also serves as an early warning diagnostic system for problems. (As an aside, i once noted a consistent drop in my mileage over a period of 2-3 weeks. It turned out to be due to carbon buildup in my EFI system. Quick action probably helped me save some engine life :) ).
The plot clearly shows that gas prices started around $3.0 per gallon beginning of year, climbed all the way upto $4.7 / gallon in mid of 2008 and are falling to less than $3.0 / gallon at the end of year.
Can one predict which direction the curve is headed now ? I cannot.
Can one predict which direction the curve is headed now ? I cannot.
2 comments:
Yes.. fuel-prices have been on a roller-coaster this year...
Wow! U seem to be maintaining a lot of data per gas-fill!! On a lighter note, "Subodh, tum time nahi note-down karte, gas fill karne ka?" ;) :)
I really like the idea of keeping a vigilant eye on gas-mileage data. Drop in mileage is usually a harbinger of problem in the car.
Maybe not true in your case, but a lot of people stopped using private vehicles and started car-pooling or using public transport. This dropped gas consumption. Would be interesting to see that, if you know where to find it. Of course, this would be city/state specific.
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