The evidence is growing that it is going to take a really major event to get America out of its beloved and seemingly essential automobiles. Even with gasoline running a dollar a gallon higher compared to this time last year, consumption is holding about the same or even creeping up a bit. The conventional wisdom is that it is going to take some spectacularly high prices (Europe is already at $8 a gallon) before we see a significant reduction in driving. Shortages, however, are another matter. If your neighborhood gas stations, or perhaps those along the Interstates, are out of fuel, you are going to cut back your driving — period. There will be very little to do other than call you Congressman and demand that something be done.
