October 25 , 2005
OPINIONSSUV owners, stop complaining
As I drive down the city streets, in my gas efficient, compact car, I notice more and more, just how much I am outnumbered by big “beast” SUV’s and overlarge trucks.
Of course I choose to drive my car because I cannot afford the payment, insurance, or let alone, the gas cost that comes with owning an SUV or truck.
So what leads me to my latest frustration is the constant complaints I hear from SUV owners when it comes to their over-inflated bill at the gas pump.
After all, they chose to purchase their gas guzzler, and it’s not like the latest gas hike is any news to us. Gas prices have been surging for awhile, and that hasn’t, until recently, stopped car buyers from flocking to dealerships to buy “gasoholic” beasts that most have little need for.
How many people out there really need seating for seven? How many people need a truck to haul anything? I mean what is a V8 really needed for these days?
Many “beast” owners don’t have a trailer to haul, or a boat to tow to a local lake. Rather, they have an infatuation with having the biggest, most impressive truck on the block.
Sometimes as I look around, it seems to me that trucks are just one part of the American ego. Having the biggest house, the biggest boat, the biggest wallet, and of course, the biggest truck, earns people their big egos. You know, keeping up with the Jones’.
Believe me, I’m not trying to pick on all “beast” owners.
It is understandable to me why some people do own trucks. They are needed for some business reasons, and yes the gas prices do negatively impact these business owners, but I highly doubt that the vast majority of truck owners actually have a legitimate need for a truck.
Of course for owners who complain when filling their V8, 454 big-block, 8 mpg “beast,” I have no sympathy.
There are powerful vehicles out there that get much better gas mileage, and for city use, a V6 usually does the trick. Heck, my 4-cylinder roars up the freeways just like anything else.
If Americans would trade in their gas guzzlers for compact cars, the roads would be safer, (God forbid I ever get hit by one of those “beasts”) gas prices would come down, and they could pride themselves in helping to save Alaska’s frontiers.
It’s not like there aren’t other options. Hybrid cars are becoming more of an everyday reality. There are kits available to switch gas guzzlers to more environmentally friendly “beasts.” Our city bussing system has caught onto the idea, why can’t we?
So for people out there struggling with living with a “gasoholic,” make a move. Get a car that is more efficient.
For those still attached to their “beast,” well…shut up!
Volume 43, Issue 5. Today is
