The Future of Cars
No matter where you live in the world, what you do, or what form it is, everyone travels. In more globalized countries, the most common form of transportation is driving cars. Cars alone make up about two-thirds of total journeys made. While everyone knows driving cars, flying, going on cruises pollutes the Earth, another concern is the amount of fossil fuels it uses. When fossil fuels are burned, they let off more CO2 and these emissions are then left to trap heat in the atmosphere. Although people could change forms of transportation, that’s not a solution many people are interested in.
One solution that car makers have come up with is electric cars. Vehicles that run on electricity potentially fix the problem with CO2 emissions, and also let people enjoy their favored way of transportation. Although with companies like Tesla, and even big-name car manufacturers are putting out models of electric cars, they have not caught on with the majority of the public. Why?
Most think of the immediate cost of these cars, as they have a reputation for being higher price, despite tax incentives and lower maintenance costs. In the end these cars may be cheaper in the long run. Worries of running out of power are a concern, as the number of charging stations around pale in comparison with the number of gas stations. Overall, people don’t think that electric cars do much for the environment in the end. Could an increase in demand for energy produce more emissions if it is not coming from renewable resources? How is the battery disposed of when finished? These questions raise concerns people have with these vehicles.
What does the future look like for the transportation industry?
Overall, probably transporting less. With advances in technology, a global pandemic, and probably more unpredictable weather, people will wish to communicate more over technology more than in-person. Why should someone burn gas and resources driving a half-hour to work each day when you could perform just as well from home? Another thing people look for when buying a car is more fuel-efficiency, or even purchasing buying a hybrid car. With higher fuel-efficiency, fewer resources are used and less money is spent on gas. When I was growing up my parents were among the many buy a Toyota Prius and they loved being able to spend less money on gas and still drive the same amount. Lastly, much like not leaving the water on when brushing your teeth, don’t leave your car idling when you’re not driving. There’s no point.
