Since July, the per gallon price of gasoline, as surveyed by AAA, has fallen 44.7 cents and now sits at $3.667 for regular unleaded.

The data, compiled by AAA and the Oil Price Information Service, indicates a 10 percent pull back in price levels since the July 17th record of $4.114.

This drop has corresponded with a 20 percent dip in the price of crude oil on investor worries that high prices are leading to lowered demand for both gasoline and diesel fuels.

Drivers in two states, however, continue to pay above the $4 level, with gasoline selling in Alaska for $4.546 and in Hawaii for $4.393. Currently the lease expensive fuel is for sale in Missouri at $3.424.

Although the current price levels are a distinct improvement, the per gallon cost is still 33 percent over 2007 levels.

The high cost of gasoline has led to a significant shift in consumer preference, with drivers turning away from trucks and SUVs in favor of smaller, more fuel-efficient, cleaner-running models.

Automakers have been forced to cutback on their production of gas guzzlers, rush new models to the showroom floor, and step up the development of hybrids.

Additionally, most automakers are existing the leasing business on the heels of huge losses on large vehicles that have failed to retain their residual value at the end of their lease period.