In relation to the hybrid SUV's, the only one that is a marked increase in MPG is the Ford escape which is too small for me, my Honey and my 3 beasts. Most other SUV hybrids, such as the Highlander, and the new Mitsubishi are only 2-3 gallons difference, but a HIGE increase in initial price. A new Nissan truck hybrid actually fared WORSE on the emissions than it's fuel counterpart. I have to have an SUV, as where I'm living is on dirt roads, and in the middle of nowhere. When searching for a new verhicle I looked at the hybrids, and they just aren't practical. Maybe in the future...... One of the reasons I was looking is for the $2,000 tax break that hybrids were supposed to afford, and after this year no one will be eligible. Even now only 3 cars are! The Escape being the only SUV.Â
Another reason why what's feasible in other countries can't be instituted here is, in Europe for example, everything is close to everything else. People walk or bike to town, and everything is right there. I know for me I have to drive 10 minutes to the grocery store, 45 minutes to the dog park, 20 minutes to a hospital, it's horrible. And that's from my city house! I go through a ton of miles. Since I bought my car in May I've put over 10,000 miles on it. That's just local driving.Â
I understand your post, and while I too want to save the environment, and help with implementing feasible alternatives. But our country is huge and widespread and I just don't see it happening.
Ang
Here's part of an article I read on MSN. Can't find the whole thing though........
http://www.motorists.com/ma/1100027274.html