Can We AFFECT Change In Our Automotive Behavior?

By Larry Nutson
Senior Editor
Chicago Bureau
The Auto Channel

AUTO CENTRAL - May 16, 2010: Americans typically buy cars to meet their needs--and then some. However, too many "needs" that occur once or twice annually are included in the purchase decision. American families could change what all is included in the "our needs" list. If American families, which typically have 2 or more vehicles in their household fleet, collectively would change their mindset on vehicle purchases, and equip the family fleet with one small fuel efficient commuter car and one vehicle that meets the need of "transporting the whole family" on a regular basis, then we all would be far better off.

Along with the CAFE requirements that apply to car manufacturers the Federal Government could adopt a credit for families that have a fuel efficient household fleet. AFFECT, the American Family Fuel Economy Credited Tax, would be a direct credit to a family's federal income tax for operating household vehicles that achieve a certain average fuel economy. If, for example, 30 mpg were to be the requirement based on EPA Combined Fuel Economy rating, a family with two vehicles could have one 25mpg vehicle and one 35mpg vehicle. An AFFECT direct credit reduction of income tax of $500, as an example, would apply.

Many "Toyota Prius families" assign the Prius to whoever is driving the most miles on any given day. Honda is promoting the Insight as being for everyone. We saw a behavior change in the 2008 summer when gasoline prices hit $4 and higher, and many folks have stuck with that changed behavior even as gasoline prices dropped. Americans can change their definition of what meets their needs.

The AFFECT will help effect this change and have an affect. Some of you will agree and some won’t. Something to think about.