That's the thing to remember - unlike the '70s gas crisis, where we were running out of gas, people carpooled and reduced traffic, the government stepped in to reduce the maximum speed limit, manufacturers nearly went broke with selling the Big Cars before trying more efficient models...+SaiN+ wrote:But if the oil companies see that we are STILL paying for oil at the current price, do you believe they will lower prices at the pump once the cost of a barrel of crude oil goes down?
...today, there has been NO CHANGE in the traffic patterns, or usage of cars! At least, for the most part. There is plenty of gas! The price gouging is coming from OPEC, and as much as a petition sounds like a good idea, OPEC just laughs. The price isn't fueled by oil company greed, it's necessary to recoup the price of buying oil. If we were to start drilling our own, they don't do it for free, we will still be paying the high price!
As long as us, the consumers, don't change our driving and spending habits, we will still keep paying whatever the price is. Crying about means nothing.
As far as gas guzzlers, Kung Fu - yes, there are many gas guzzlers. I think the "all SUVs are gas guzzlers" is a lame argument - look at their gas mileage compared to a lot of cars, trucks, and smaller vehicles, and I don't think there's much difference. Did you know, for instance, corvettes and mustangs can get nearly 30 mpg? It doesn't make sense, but it's true! There was a recent study done by some company, I forget which, in that the most fuel efficient vehicle was a jeep Wrangler. at 16 mpg! Why? because of the costs involved in making the car, and its maintenance record, and longevity of the car. You pay more gas, but you have a vehicle you don't have to replace nearly as often. That's another factor, as well, the environmental costs in making cars.