Other things equal, which of the following might shift the demand curve for gasoline to the left?

• A. A decrease in the price of gasoline
• B. An increase in the price of electric cars
• C. A rise in consumer income
• D. A decrease in public transportation fares

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a demand curve shifts when a non-price determinant of demand changes, causing the quantity demanded to change at every price level.
2. Recall that a decrease in the price of gasoline itself causes a movement along the demand curve, not a shift of the demand curve.
3. Consider that an increase in the price of electric cars, a substitute good, would likely increase the demand for gasoline, shifting the demand curve to the right, not left.
4. Recognize that a rise in consumer income generally increases demand for normal goods like gasoline, shifting the demand curve to the right.
5. Identify that a decrease in public transportation fares makes public transit more attractive, reducing the demand for gasoline and shifting the demand curve to the left.