Wednesday, April 26, 2006

Gas Prices

I welcome high gas prices. In fact, I hope gas prices keep rising. High gas prices will impact consumers enough to demand fuel efficient automobiles and the advent of alternative fuel sources. This is good for the earth and consumers in the long run.

This is evidenced by the advertising that's been making the rounds lately. Just the other day I saw an ad for the Toyota Yaris, touting its 40 MPG rating. Look at the number of hybrid cars on the market. The tide is turning, my friends, and high gas prices are the reason why. (Let's be honest. Most people won't buy a hybrid solely because it's good for the earth. They need a little pocketbook motivation, so to speak.)

I don't feel the hurt of high gas prices, as I'm an urban dweller in Chicago. I take public transportation as often as possible. I have about a third of a tank in my car right now and I haven't filled up in about two months. My transportations costs are relatively fixed and are independent of gas price swings.

Let 'em rise, folks. In the long run, it will be for the best.