This project analyzes the dynamics of US automobile gasoline consumption since 1970. Through the creation of a System Dynamics computer model, we are able to understand historical trends and test several currently proposed policies. We conclude that when fuel efficiency development is not conducted in an environment with rising fuel costs, the development is directly counteracted by the shifting tastes of consumers towards larger automobiles with lower fuel efficiency.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• BenDor, Todd K.
• Raposa, Catherine Anne

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 02D285M

Advisor

• Lyneis, James M.

Year

• 2002

Date created

• 2002-01-01

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• System Dynamics

Rights statement

• In Copyright