Why Americans Love Big Cars

In this low-lying car I drive in, a peculiar observation emerges when stuck in traffic — either the cars in front obscure the view or the towering presence of SUVs surrounds. This trend is no coincidence; it reflects a significant shift in the U.S. automotive landscape. The production of passenger cars like sedans and wagons has steadily declined since 1975, giving way to the overwhelming growth of SUVs. Last year, SUVs and trucks comprised a staggering 80% of all new car sales, marking a stark increase from 52% in 2011.

The preference for larger vehicles among Americans is undeniable, permeating every corner, even in parking-scarce neighborhoods like Brooklyn. Yet, the reasons behind this automotive transformation extend beyond cultural inclinations. The roots of this shift can be traced back to a 50-year-old policy that triggered a seismic change in the design philosophy of U.S. cars.

Embarking on a road trip from Brooklyn, New York, to a beach in Rhode Island, this journey unravels the story of how big cars conquered America's roads. New York, succumbing to the SUV and truck takeover in 2014, was the 45th state to do so, with Alaska leading the way in 1988.

As the journey progresses, one cannot help but notice the sheer dominance of SUVs in various locations, including the Costco parking lot. This shift in consumer preference is multifaceted, influenced by cultural, infrastructural, and regulatory factors. The U.S., with its wide roads, ample parking spaces, and car-centric built environment, fosters an environment conducive to larger vehicle choices.

Interviews along the route highlight diverse reasons for choosing big cars, ranging from a sense of security to the comfort of driving larger vehicles. However, the phenomenon isn't purely a product of consumer choice; it's intertwined with historical regulations aimed at improving fuel efficiency.

The 1970s oil crisis prompted the U.S. government to implement rules for automakers to enhance fuel efficiency. While passenger cars faced stringent standards, a category exempt from these rules emerged — light trucks, including SUVs. Car manufacturers, incentivized by less stringent regulations, transformed light trucks into everyday vehicles, birthing the iconic SUV.

The journey through automotive history touches on the evolution of SUV design, from frame-based models like the Chevy Blazer to unibody constructions like the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This transformation paved the way for the rise of crossovers, contributing to the demise of traditional passenger cars.

Automakers, adapting to market trends, shifted focus away from passenger cars to SUVs and crossovers, a move exemplified by companies like Volkswagen discontinuing several passenger car models. The impact is evident, with dealerships prioritizing SUVs over sedans due to consumer demand.

Examining the timeline of fuel efficiency standards reveals a correlation with the rise of SUVs. The divergence in regulations for passenger cars and light trucks not only incentivized automakers to phase out sedans but also encouraged the expansion of vehicle sizes within each category.

The journey concludes in Rhode Island, the last state to succumb to light truck dominance. Despite the growing transition to electric vehicles, the prevalence of larger, less energy-efficient cars persists. This shift carries consequences, notably a threat to pedestrian safety, with studies suggesting that SUVs pose a higher risk to pedestrians compared to passenger cars.

While some individuals, like those opting for electric bikes, challenge the SUV trend, broader change necessitates policy adjustments. Environmental, economic, and safety concerns fuel a desire among younger and politically active individuals to reshape the default vehicle choice for American families.

In essence, the U.S. is unlikely to revert to a small car country swiftly, but acknowledging the impact of policy choices can guide efforts toward reshaping the automotive landscape for a sustainable future. If we seek roads with a different outlook, addressing policy frameworks becomes a pivotal starting point.