The US Census Bureau estimates that the average American spends more than 100 hours commuting to work each year. But carpooling is far from mainstream despite efforts by some employers to offer van pick-up service for employees and other commuting perks. Just 12% of the 128.3 mln workers in the US carpooled in 2000, down from 13.4% in 1990. In 2000, 76% drove to work alone, according to census information.