Oct 9, 2006

FUEL EFFICIENCY: THE DEMAND IS GROWING FOR SMALLER PEOPLE.

According to Holman Jenkins in the Wall Street Journal, Detroit
is talking small cars again, following the near collapse of the
SUV market amid higher gas prices over the last two years.  He
points out, however, that the popularity of SUVs and pickups was
linked to the obesity epidemic.  People need taller cabs so they
can fit behind the steering wheel and still reach the pedals.
Meanwhile, gas prices have fallen 25% since the peak just two
months ago, but they may be at the bottom.  Reports that OPEC is
preparing to cut production is already starting to raise oil
prices.  There is a way out.  If we keep converting crop land to
making ethanol, rising food prices will begin to reduce American
waistlines.  We just have to stay the course.

http://bobpark.physics.umd.edu