According to a recent email alert from Environmental Defense, the original Ford Model T got 28.5 miles per gallon! Our Audi certainly isn't that fuel efficient, and today's hybrid SUVs typically average just 29-31 mpg.

I couldn't agree more with Environmental Defense's point of view: Car companies could do more and it's time that they do. So, too, could we as drivers.

Consider some of these statistics from Environmental Defense:

• the U.S. makes up only 5% of the world's population
• the U.S. owns 30% of the world's automobiles
• that would be 232 million registered vehicles in the U.S.–almost one per person
• thus, the U.S. contributes 45% of the world's automotive CO2 emissions
• average fuel efficiency has not changed in 10 years

There is some positive news, however: four major automakers (DaimlerChrysler, Ford, GM and Toyota) voiced their support for a cap on global warming emissions at a recent appearance before a House subcommittee–as long as  regulations included reduced emissions and carbon production from fuels. And, to give credit where credit is due, George Bush did call for raising fuel efficiency (CAFE) standards in his State of the Union Address.

Seems to me that the very least the car companies and/or government regulations should aim for is a fleet average of 28.5 mpg. And, we as consumers, should hold them to such a standard by refusing to buy a vehicle that doesn't outperform the fuel efficiency of a Ford Model T.

Carbon Neutral Journal's stats are brought to you by Blue Spruce Cleaners.

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