Will Americans Really Give Up Their Cars?
Sometimes, you just need to respond to an article you read. “Commentators” of a report issued by the Earth Policy Institute believe it is likely that Americans are starting to lose their love for their cars. Apparently, the American auto fleet contracted by 2% this last year and according to those commentators, it’s a sure sign of a continued and prolonged contraction. They are totally forgetting that the US government deleted 750,000 vehicles from the fleet with “Cash for Clunkers” and that we have witnessed the worst recession in decades, causing many people to put off buying not only cars but many other high ticket items. The only reason we could see a continued contraction for now is the reluctance to open up the purse strings until there are much better signs that the recession is behind us. Wishful thinking is what it is and nothing more. The love affair is very likely to continue as soon as the economy stabilizes – whether that’s good in your book or bad, it’s still the most likely answer.
January 20th, 2010 at 7:43 pm
The less I drive the better off I am. As a matter of fact, were it not for the fact that my job often requires I run out and haul heavier things than I can carry on my motorized bicycle I’d probably not even own my pick-up. And as to why I continue to own a car that only burns 3-4 tanks of gas a year is a question I’m beginning to ponder.
January 20th, 2010 at 7:45 pm
PS. I’m probably the exception that proves the rule.