The average vehicle occupancy in the US has decreased from 2.2 to 1.7 people per car since 1970, resulting in less energy efficiency and environmental harm. Carpooling is more common for church, school, and social events, while commuting to work has the lowest occupancy. Vans have the highest occupancy, and there are more cars than licensed drivers in the US.
The average vehicle occupancy in the United States has decreased by about half of one person since 1970. The average vehicle occupancy in 1970 was about 2.2 people, but by 2010 it had dropped to about 1.7 people per car. In practical terms, this means more people are driving cars themselves, making driving less energy efficient and worse for the environment.
Learn more about the guide:
People tend to carpool more when they go to church, school and social events. The activity with the least vehicle occupancy is commuting to work.
The average vehicle occupancy for cars and SUVs is about the same. Vans have the highest average vehicle occupancy – about 2.3 people per van – and trucks other than pickups have the lowest average vehicle occupancy of just over one person per truck.
There are more cars in the United States than there are licensed drivers.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
