Daily driving is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels, with 45% of Americans driving every day, according to Hankook Tire America Corp.'s latest Gauge Index survey.
That's "twice as many as the same time last year," according to Hankook officials.
Nearly half of respondents to Hankook's recent survey report that they have resumed regular drives to their places of work or schools.
The Gauge found that "uncertainty about travel has decreased by 38% year over year, and most Americans - 70% - are feeling excited or hopeful about an upcoming trip.
"In addition, the latest data reflects an increased reliance on automotive transportation over other modes like public transportation and ride sharing. The Gauge found most Americans - 78% - rank automotive as the mode of transportation they are most likely to use through August 2021."
The survey also reveals that "most people also expect they will return to their normal driving habits by the end of the year.
"Millennials may be the first to do so, as they are currently dominating the road. Sixty-percent say they have already returned to driving every day, making them significantly more likely to get behind the wheel than their Gen Z (45%) or Gen X (52%) counterparts."
“Our latest Gauge Index indicates people are relying on cars more than ever as they resume daily routines, and demonstrates increased confidence in returning to school, work and social activities,” says J.J. Park, Hankook's director of marketing.
“Understanding these shifting trends in Americans’ attitudes and opinions about driving offers both the auto and travel industry important cues about consumers’ plans as we emerge from the pandemic, further helping them to navigate the road ahead.”
