Auto Problems & 4x4s

by Thrandur

When I hear people talk against using 4x4s and SUVs I think they are somewhat missing the point. These are often people living in big cities where all the cars and trucks contribute to traffic jams and polluted air:

The biggest problem in cities is space for parking and space for roads. Most cars are only used a few hours a day at most, the rest of the time they sit idle taking up space.

The problems are getting yourself to and from work in the mornings and a way to get groceries to your home. In an artificial environment like that you have to solve matters in a different way.

Solutions can be smaller cars (even stackable), public transportation (like tubes and buses and taxis) and more use of electric cars to reduce pollution. As for the energy issue, you can go electric, either partially (hybrid) or totally. I'm pretty sure there are genius engineers and idea makers working to solve these things - although it is not the main focus of this web site.

For a fresh look at new ideas read this article in the NYTimes.

When it comes to longer trips and even 4 wheeling tours, you have other things to worry about.

Most of the auto industry is focusing on city and highway traffic. Very few 4x4s makes are produced with the main aim of using off road.

I think we 4 wheelers must remember our responsibility and use other means of transportation where we can and also other means of energy use. At all times should we show our respect for nature and the great outdoors by treading lightly.

What do you think?