Quote:
Originally Posted by redpoint5
I don't think Alex thinks of such things much, just like most people.
The average occupancy is closer to 2 persons than to 1 (1.7 occupants is the US average).
Is it more efficient to purchase both a 1-person vehicle and a 5 passenger vehicle for those times when multiple occupants are present, or simply purchase the 5 passenger? Which strategy would be cheaper considering registration, taxes, insurance...
Most people don't dream of owning things that have less utility.
|
The question is so conditional,contextual,a proper answer would have to address all possible conditions.
*If the average occupancy is 1.7-persons,then the average automobile would offer seating for two.
*If on occasion,seating for five was a requirement,then five seats is the solution.
*If discretionary income is not an issue,then the motorist would own both,achieving 100% utility each time the specific vehicle were operated.At zero economic discomfort.
*If an individual is existing hand to mouth,then there is a far different calculus involved.
*Any society which allows suburban development,without providing for mass transit,forcing residents into personal transportation units,would,on the surface,have failed the very society they're entrusted to serve,tax,fee,lien,seize, or expulse.
*Any government who's pension fund profits from the suffering of its most vulnerable citizens would by any metric be recognized as a pariah.
*If we the people have a say in what taxes, registration,and insurance cost,then whether owning more than one vehicle becomes a liability or not is a reflection upon us and our priorities.
*I don't dream about vehicles.Madison Avenue might be disappointed,I've no control over that.
*I have pondered personal transportation since 1973.The Volkswagen XL1 is the closest I've seen to a 'rational' vehicle,however,somewhere along the way,Volkswagen lost their moral/ethical compass,never having seriously considered producing an 'attainable' vehicle which might cover the needs of most drivers on most days,at a reasonable net profit.
*We might want to resolve the issue of whether driving is an entitlement or a privilege.
*If it's an entitlement,then a national car company,spitting out safe,affordable transportation units,which don't change over time,can be serviced anywhere,with universal parts availability,in all fifty states,within the means of anyone living on minimum wage would be a good move.No dealership.Buy them at the grocery store.
*This topic could easily become a book.