There is a big move here in Australia and, I suspect, the rest of the world, to produce small fuel efficient hybrid cars. I believe they are looking at a  $15-$20,000 market. The average family car is priced in the $30-$40,000 range so they are looking at smaller cars for a much smaller price.

The concept is, on the face of it, quite reasonable. Smaller cars use smaller amounts of fuel. If the run on hybrid engines there is an even bigger saving. The price is certainly attractive. There is however a range of problems that I don’t think people have thought through very well.

Our government is looking purely at the carbon effect. Manufacturers are looking for survival so if a government is going to throw tax dollars, they will put their hands out. Besides,  selling 2 million cars always sounds better than 1.5 million or less.

Australia is a car dominant society. Less than 10% of workforce rely on public transport to get to and from work. In fact car pooling is a bit of a rarity as well. We have our cars, we love our cars, and heaven help anyone who threatens  our right to own and drive a car.

Where I take issue with the solutions proposed – that is, the small efficient hybrid car – is that it really won’t solve any problems. In fact, if anything, it will exacerbate them.

Single car households, when the time comes to replace their vehicle, will be able to become dual car households. Rather than spending $35,000 on a new sedan, they will be able to buy two small cars – and still have change. This will have the effect of increasing the number of vehicles on the road.

More vehicles equals more congestion which leads to road rage, car accidents and higher pollution. You can guarantee that two small cars will output more carbon than one medium size car.

Increasing car numbers also leads to other effects often not considered. Two cars means twice the number of tires required, and the associated disposal. We will also have the problem of trying to dispose of more car bodies in the future.

Small cars – even though fuel efficient and using hybrid motors are not the solution. The problem is far larger than just cars. In my next post I will highlight possible solutions to what is becoming a battle of self interests by many players.