From: BillK (bill@wkidston.freeserve.co.uk)
Date: Thu Feb 06 2003 - 11:07:24 MST
Thu Feb 06, 2003 08:22 am Ron h wrote:
> Many reasons have been thrown out for the difference in tastes but one
> seems to stand out. The European pays much more for gas due to the
> much higher taxes per gallon or litre that what we have in the states.
Very true! If Americans were paying around 5 USD/gallon I am sure it
would concentrate your mind wonderfully on fuel economy.
I think the reasons for the high tax in Europe compared with USA are
probably historical. USA had (have?) their own oilfields and started off
with cheap oil and long distances to travel. Europe has to import all
their oil and have shorter distances to travel. Europe has a much higher
population density and now has too many cars for comfort. Part of the
high taxes is to try to limit the growth in car numbers and part to try
to reduce the use of oil. Many towns are banning cars from town centres
or charging entrance fees to drive into town centres. And don't get me
started on the high parking charges in town!
Greg mentioned that he sees lots of small fuel efficient cars in USA. I
think that this is a relative statement. Compared to his 'vette, then
yes, he probably does see a lot of more fuel-efficient cars. ;-)
According to the US Dept of Energy figures you have to drop down to
around 30 to 35 mpg average before you get a wide selection of cars
available in USA (apart from diesels). In Europe these qualify as large
family saloons, not fuel efficient cars at all.
Search in http://www.fueleconomy.gov/ from the US Dept. of Energy.
Their figures for a 5.7 Litre 'vette are 19 mpg city and 28 mpg fway.
But remember, Europe is not all small cars. Rolls Royce, Ferrari,
Jaguar, Mercedes, and other large cars are all plentiful. You just have
to spend lots of money on them. It's a lifestyle choice thing. If you
have the money you spend it on what you want.
Regards, BillK
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