I’ve spent much of this year examining car bloat, the process through which smaller vehicles are being replaced by increasingly massive SUVs and trucks.
What I’ve learned: Huge cars are terrible for society, often in ways that are hidden.
Some basic facts:
◆ >80% of US car sales are now trucks/SUVs.
◆ Models keep expanding. For example, the F-150 is now ~800 lbs heavier and 7 inches taller than in 1991.
◆ EVs can make the problem worse due to huge batteries.
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Problem 2️⃣ : Car bloat worsens climate change
Heavier cars require more energy to move, which makes them guzzle gas.
When electrified, their huge batteries are so inefficient that the biggest models generate more pollution that some gas-powered sedans.
https://www.fastcompany.com/90854942/the-blatant-greenwashing-of-suvs
Problem 3️⃣ : Car bloat shreds tires
Heavier cars exert more pressure on tires, eroding them faster.
Tire particles are absorbed into water, where they damage ecosystems. They also float through the air, harming human health when ingested.
Problem 4️⃣ : Car bloat destroys roadways
Cars have become so heavy that US autohaulers can’t carry a full load w/o exceeding federal weight limits.
Car companies and truckers are asking Congress to raise those limits – but doing so would pulverize asphalt.
Even some automakers are recognizing the dangers of car bloat and calling for change.
Here is Stellantis' CTO in a recent interview.
@davidzipper US automakers make plenty of small cars? I don't quite understand you.