what will it take to convince Americans to buy smaller,fuel efficient cars?

Question

We place so much of our personal identity in our cars. Other countries where fuel has been expensive for years drive small, easier to park vehicles. More use is made of public tran., bicycles and motor bikes.

Answer 1

They will buy smaller, fuel efficient cars when

- it becomes so economically painful to drive anything else that they will have little choice
-when they get a major tax break for driving them
-when companies get a major tax break for making them
-when it becomes it becomes a true symbol of patriotism
-when a convincing PR campaign is developed and admired people from all walks of life promote it

Sigh. . .

Answer 2

Because other countries aren't as big as the United States, and in the UK for instance where fuel is more expensive (even with a more efficient car), a car that's more nimble through the twisty bits of road is more important than having a big heavier cruiser is in the States.

Also Public Transport is crap....... over priced, not always efficiently run, doesn't always run on time, doesn't take you to the exact spot you need to get to, no personal space with all the other people using them (not all of them model citizens), never timed conveniently..... either gets you there 30-60minutes too early, or 30-60mins+ too late.

Two wheeled transport has sod-all room to carry things around, and not as safe as their 4-wheeled counterparts.

Answer 3

A dictator that imposes $20/gal fuel tax, $1/mile road tax, bans tailgating at football games and race tracks, bans drive thru coffee shops and restaurants, institutes a one-child rule, confiscates SUVs, Vans and Pick-up trucks.

That might do it. Oh, you better collect all them guns first or you will never get the pickups!

Answer 4

the US government must increase tax on fuel bringing it up to at least $6/gallon. You would see many small cars within a year.

Answer 5

those with this "purchase American" suggestions-set not often replace. they are often dependable, committed union contributors that are brainwashed by making use of the unions. i'm all too conscious of union procedures, as i replace into compelled to be a member of the UAW for 40 5 years with the intention to maintain my jobs. All this "purchase American" crap particular did no longer help GM or Chrysler stay afloat, DID it? they mandatory a bailout. what share eastern vehicle makers mandatory help? NONE, with the aid of fact they build the main suitable vehicles bought, and persons purchase vehicles with a sturdy attractiveness.

Answer 6

$20/per gallon fuel

Answer 7

I need a large vehicle to transport my large dog with because he insists on going with me everywhere.

Really, he's large and stubborn.

Answer 8

rationing petrol and increased gas prices

Answer 9

I dunno. I was wondering the same this week. It is incredible that SUV's are still as popular as they are. The US should have some seeerious tax incentives on purchasing scooters :-)