One of the most interesting people I’ve ever met was a recent immigrant from a central African country back in the late 90s. Aside from being one of the kindest, most intelligent, and generous people I know; he was also one of the most unaware (automotively).
He had a wonderful theory that, when applied to his late 80s Dodge, just would not work. His 2.5-hour drive to university on the weekends was difficult – he was very poor. Figuring that less time in the car would necessitate less expense, he drove very, very, very fast. Frustrated with a quickly-lowering fuel gauge and disappointed that his small 4-cylinder car wasn’t returning the fuel economy he expected; he resolved within himself to drive faster.
By the time my father heard of his speeding (almost entirely condoned by The Good Car Dad), he quickly corrected the theory held by our friend who had likely set records – both for time elapsed and fuel guzzled.
Gas prices at that time were way below $1.00/litre; closer to $0.60 than $1.60. In the same area where he bought gas in 1998, pump stations now charge $1.46 per litre.
Although that university student drove faster because of what he believed to be an unnecessary added expense, Natural Resources Canada and the RCMP are beginning to see a general slowing in traffic speeds. There’s also less driving on rainy days, indicating the use of much greater discretion in car owner’s driving decisions. And, not surprisingly, rolling stops are becoming the order of the day. Read about the changes at the Chronicle-Herald.
