In the past few years, the Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) has gained amazing popularity. When before sleek sports cars and petite Japanese cars were the only “in” thing in the world of cars, now these big macho brutes have taken the world by storm. With their style and size, SUVs make a statement loud enough to be heard in all corners of the world. More than the outer appearance, SUVs are quite functional as well. The interiors are very comfortable and decked out with every imaginable gadget to make driving easier. SUVs can lug the whole family around. Indeed, SUVs are also serving as all-around vehicles.
So why are some sectors harping on SUVs? For one, the high demand for SUVs has precipitated the skyrocketing prices for each single unit. An SUV may be pleasing to behold but your bank account will definitely suffer for it. Another critical issue linked to the SUV is its environmental impact. A vehicle this size definitely consumes much more fuel than you average sedan. SUVs haven’t been nicknamed “gas guzzlers” for nothing. That, of course, adds to the expense of the owner as well. More than the monetary impact, fuel consumption also has adverse implications regarding the environment. SUVs are not particularly known for their fuel efficiency. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Studies have shown that SUVs emit more carbon dioxide per mile than the average car. With the rising environmental problems the whole world is facing, this is indeed a very serious issue. Another point that has been raised concering SUVs is their safety. Due to their height, SUVs have a larger tendency to roll over during an accident. This of course increases the chances of acquiring serious injuries, and even death.
So is there any reason left to purchase an SUV today aside from the image it portrays? Good news for SUV lovers – the answer is yes. Realizing the negative aspects of the earlier models, manufacturers are now modifying SUVs to address the issues outlined above. First, SUVs are now made lighter than the first models. Weight is directly related to fuel consumption. With the decrease in weight, overall fuel consumption is decreased as well. Furthermore, there are now hybrid SUVs which rely on electricity in tandem with gasoline or diesel. These new measures definitely aid a lot towards the lessening of the pollution generated by these big cars. Now, people can enjoy the benefits of SUVs without offending their moral sensibilities when it comes to the environment. More so, safety features abound in SUVs – and definitely in the newer ones. The critical factor now is the driver. How he handles the car on the roads is the most important thing that ensures his (and the passengers’) safety.
As such, SUVs are still among the most popular vehicles today. With the prestige lent to this line of cars by celebrities (who just seem to love SUVs), it is safe to say that SUVs will be here for a long time yet.
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Tom Takihi is the owner of the ECO SUV website. To gain more information on how you can help in this crucial area, please visit www.ecosuv.com
