AAA Reports National Gas Prices Up 6.3 Cents Since Mid-July

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 12, 2003 -- The nationwide average price of self- serve, regular unleaded gasoline has increased 6.3 cents since mid-July, jumping from $1.503 to $1.566 per gallon.

"These higher pump prices can be attributed to higher crude oil costs (currently around $32 per barrel), decreased fuel imports from Europe because of these higher prices, low gasoline inventories and demands from summer vacation travel," said Dawn Duffy, AAA spokesperson. "To make the most of their investments, motorists should shop aggressively for the best gas prices, look for ways to cut down on fuel consumption and keep their vehicles properly maintained to increase fuel economy."

Reports for August 12, 2003, reflect the following average prices per gallon for self-serve, regular unleaded gas:

                                   Current        Month Ago      Year Ago
   National                         $1.57           $1.50         $1.40
   Minnesota                        $1.60           $1.49         $1.43
   Duluth                           $1.60           $1.51         $1.48
   Minneapolis/St. Paul             $1.61           $1.51         $1.42
   Rochester                        $1.58           $1.50         $1.43
   St. Cloud                        $1.62           $1.46         $1.40

AAA's Fuel Gauge Report is based upon data from the Oil Price Information Service, the nation's most comprehensive source of petroleum pricing statistics.

AAA offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services to more than 45 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA Minnesota/Iowa is part of The Auto Club Group, which has 4.1 million members in eight Midwest states. AAA Minneapolis serves more than 172,000 members in Hennepin County.