European Cars and Fuel Economy
Published over 4 years ago
We just returned from a trip to the UK and one of the things that always impresses me about travelling to European countries is the alternate selection of cars. Generally their cars are small, so there is a wider selection of models in the small variety. Of course, they have some of the same big name brands that we do but a whole slew of ones not available in the US. Furthermore, it is interesting when there is a big name that you recognize but the model is one you've never seen in the states. For example, Ford, a carmaker that embodies America and its big car obsession, sells smaller more fuel efficent car models not available here. Ironically Hondas and Toyotas, which for small models are the car of choice by many fuel-economy minded drivers aren't as common on the roads there. Some brands that you'll see there and not here... Vauxhall, Citroen, Renault, Skoda, etc. Even if you check out www.Ford.co.uk, you'll see some of the models they offer, nice, sporty and fuel efficient- many even offered as diesels.
Part of the reason that Europeans drive such small cars is the very high cost of fuel- no new news here. They aren't paying more for the oil than we are, they are just taxed at a much higher level for it. Those taxes are dispersed in a number of areas, including partially funding renewable energy sources. You can see that evident in many areas where the landscapes are dotted with windmills. It makes me wonder why we are so adverse to trying to explore ways to get people to rally around conserving more. I am not sure raising taxes on gas will do it, but the turn has to be made. Maybe it is that European have gotten to see first hand their resources get pinched. Maybe that is what we need to see, maybe then Ford will also offer us the same small car fuel efficency instead of gas guzzlers. Most Europeans are driving small, fuel efficent cars although you do see the token Hummer or oversized SUV, and you have to laugh when you see them struggling to park on the tiny streets and small car parks.
admin says:
There are two parts to the reasons why American cars aren't super small (in my opinion):
1. Our fuel taxes aren't nearly as high as those in Europe.
2. Our safety standards are very high, and most small cars can't pass them.
I know several people who want bigger cars because they feel safer in them, and for the most part I think they are correct.
Could a greater separation of local and highway roads be in our future? For example, you can't bring a moped, bike, or a horse on the highway, but have no problem riding them on local roads. It would be interesting to have access to a local car that is small, efficient, and only meant for local use. These exist in America today, but are only meant for private roads, like corporate campuses, malls, and colleges.