U.S. gasoline average reaches $4.48 per gallon

Regular gasoline now averages $4.48 nationwide, according to AAA. That is nearly 5 cents more than a week earlier and the highest level recorded for this point in the calendar. The unusual early-autumn increase raises operating expenses for small companies whose employees drive for deliveries, appointments or mobile services.

AAA linked the climb mainly to instability around the Strait of Hormuz and strong crude prices. WTI crude finished the latest trading session at $92.16 per barrel after gaining $1.64. Daily gasoline demand moved up to 8.84 million barrels from 8.79 million, while production slipped to 9.59 million barrels from 9.64 million. Domestic inventories now total 206 million barrels, compared with 207.7 million previously.

Public charging prices, meanwhile, remain at 42 cents per kilowatt-hour on average. Electric vehicles could reduce reliance on gasoline, but purchasing vehicles and adding charging equipment involve substantial upfront expense. AAA’s TripTik planner displays current gasoline and charging prices along travel routes. Higher pump costs may also alter customer travel patterns, affecting foot traffic while adding pressure to delivery budgets and profit margins.