Quote:
Originally Posted by redpoint5
The real root of the issue is the low relative price of petroleum as a fuel. If you want to reduce demand for something, then raise the price.
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I think the real real root of the issue is the lack of financial literacy and rationality. Plenty of people buying the larger/less efficient vehicles really can't afford them and they either don't realize it or don't care. Fuel economy is just one of the factors that goes into the cost of owning a vehicle. The less efficient vehicles usually cost more in the first place. Insurance is usually more for the larger and usually more expensive vehicles. Maintenance is generally more expensive, too. A set of ok tires for my truck was over $600, a set of very nice snow tires for my Prius cost about $500. The giant Mud Terrains some people "need" for their city driving cost well over $1000. All these extra costs come from basing a purchase decision more on wants and perceived needs than actual needs.
If people would realize this, we wouldn't have this issue. I like fast cars and big trucks as much as the next guy, but for commuting and picking up groceries, they're kind of ridiculous.