It was ironic, to be attending a public transportation meeting and listening to an attendee talk about his recent purchase of a Cadillac Escalade. The luxury SUV cost him $70,000, which, as the salesman apparently pointed out, means that he probably isn't too concerned about the rising price of fuel.
My first thought was that people are free to purchase any vehicle they desire, no matter the consequences.
Then I thought, but this guy works in an industry that promotes public transportation and all of the attendant benefits to the environment, economy and general welfare of the citizens.
Is it hypocritical for him to run out and buy a gas-guzzling SUV (12 mpg in the city) when he earns his living through the public transportation industry? Or is it just a case of bad timing? Had he done this eight years ago, no one would have noticed or cared. Now, however, you are being judged by the car you drive, but not in terms of its cost or status, but by its fuel mileage and impact on the environment.
Steve Lopez, a columnist for the Los Angeles Times, has been hectoring Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's transportation deputy, Jaime de la Vega, for several months because he drives a Hummer. In his latest jab Lopez has some fun exploring the difficulty de la Vega will have if he decides to sell the giant SUV.
Which made me think about the Escalade and its low fuel economy and rapidly deteriorating value. Everything has its price, doesn't it?
Until next time.
Steve
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