A couple weeks ago, I put in my order for a brand new 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid. The wife and I test drove it recently, and we loved it. Plenty of pep, plenty of space, and average fuel economy of 32 miles per gallon.
We knew it was an environmentally sound choice, helping limit our contribution to greenhouse gases. And hey, even the cloth seats are made from recycled fibers! Got a great deal on one too through the buying service I use.
But more than helping the environment, as I thought about it, I'm helping our troops, too. Because the less gas I waste, the less need for us to remain in the Middle East.
The neocons can talk all they want about fightin' terra in Iraq. We knew the score a long time ago: this was about control of the resources. Period. And that stands for O-I-L.
So I know that reducing my consumption of that precious commodity will help with the war effort, er, make that the ENDING the war effort. I realize Herr Bush has told us WE don't have to sacrifice anything...to just keep on a' shoppin' and consumin' and not to worry about it.
Well, forget that. It was time to put my money where my mouth is.
The added bonuses? I buy a union built vehicle from Kansas City, Mizzou. And I get a nice fat $3,000 federal tax credit for doing so (less money going to that war effort, I figure).
Speaking of which: Detroit, if you are listening:
MAKE MORE VEHICLES LIKE THIS!!!!!
The dealership I went to could not not keep these things on the lot. The Escape Hybrid is selling like mad. I need to wait 6-8 weeks for mine to come in, but it is worth it.
Ford, you guys have like 17 different types of SUVs you sell. Only one is really selling well. And that one happens to be a hybrid.
So before you guys in Detroit start moaning about CAFE standards, how about letting the market decide a little. People are itching to buy these cars...it's time to make more.
Helps the pocketbook. Helps the environment. And who knows...it make actually help our troops, too.
At least I hope so.