Energy Literacy Advocates Newsroom

Sorry - Not Available in the US

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Ford Focus ECOnetic. Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion. Ford Fiesta ECOnetic. Mini Cooper D. Toyota Aygo. The first part of these names should look familiar, the last part decidedly foreign. These are all brands sold in the US but models not available here. And these are all models which rank in the top "green" cars in Europe.

Certainly, Europe has greater demand for compact and efficient vehicles. That consumer market has demonstrated its demands much longer. Taxes across the pond have made gasoline and diesel prices go above $8 a gallon. Combined with narrow roads and consumer preference, the giant SUV never really caught on.

So what is left to us? Perhaps legislation could work. But while we're waiting for that, think about your next car purchase. The models are already available - it's appealing to the manufacturers to bring them over here. Demonstrate your demand. Speak with your dollar.

Will it take $8 a gallon gasoline here in the US? I think not - I think we're smarter than that.

Labels: automakers, efficiency