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The New Commoner

A broader form of capitalism called Proprietarianism offers wealth, enhanced lives and greater control of day-to-day living to common citizens. It offers the opportunity to build communities and relationships. The philosophy IS oriented toward business, but NOT necessarily big business. More "Mom & Pop" size businesses give more people more opportunities to conduct their own lives their own way.

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

Tiny Cars

Probably not for everyone, but for those who would like an inexpensive car just for getting around town.

Little cars. Not what we commonly call small cars, but really little cars: inexpensive, one or two passengers, small gas or electric engine, maybe 40 mph, 80 mpg. Little cars with heaters, A/C, stereos, etc, but limited to driving within the city.

Ordinary automobiles are at their worst when operated under city driving conditions. If we are really serious about reducing air pollution and gaining independence from foreign oil, little cars could be a viable answer. If just a small percentage of people were to drive such vehicles to work, shopping, dropping off the kids, etc., there would be a huge reduction gasoline consumption and an even greater reduction in air pollution.

Such vehicles would be safer, cheaper to manufacture, operate, maintain and repair than ordinary cars. Some of the very first cars made were little cars. They have been around a long time. They could be built easily and made to be very durable and comfortable. Plus, they could be made locally in just about any community by an adventurous soul or two with minimal startup capital.

How about special streets just for little cars? Special parking lots? Restricted areas for little cars only? Wouldn’t it be worth the effort?

Passing laws to allow such vehicles on city streets would, I think, quickly ignite a fire under America that would allow our natural ingenuity to solve a few problems that ambassadors and missiles seem unable to handle. Here are some problems that could be solved or alleviated by small cars:
- Dependence on foreign oil could be eliminated
- Air pollution from motor vehicles could be dramatically reduced or even eliminated.
- Noise pollution in communities could be dramatically reduced or eliminated.
- Crowded driving and parking problems could be alleviated.
- Less land area would be needed for driving surfaces.
- Maintenance expenses for driving surfaces could be reduced.
- Young people and old people could drive more easily.
- Vehicle costs could be dramatically lower than conventional cars.

There are quite likely other benefits I haven’t thought of. Is any community even experimenting with such a thing?

If not, why not? Many problems our nation faces today could be eliminated in five years. The materials, technology and know-how are available right now and they have been tried and tested. What are we waiting for?

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