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There is no doubt that the USA has a major influence on the rest of the world, not least through their economy. With North America often giving an indication of things to come it is interesting the American car industry is shifting its focus. Americans have always been known for a love of large gas guzzlers but the Detroit motor show has indicated a major change: normally packed with large cars the event is dominated by electric and smaller-petrol powered vehicles.
During the recession all manufacturing has suffered and the US car makers have been hit as hard as anyone. Chrysler and GM both went through torrid times and it seems that these challenges have instilled a fresh mindset and direction as a means of keeping Motor City afloat and protecting the jobs and way of life that go with it.
As with many drivers around the globe, Americans are concerned about the rising price of fuel which makes smaller, more efficient and economical models an attractive proposition. The continued and growing pressure to reduce emissions also makes change a necessity.
However, on this occasion the Americans seem to be somewhat off the pace. With Asian and European car makers churning out a host of hybrid and fully electric models there is already stiff competition to get a foothold in the electric market.
In the UK alone, £25 million of electric trials have kicked off involving 340 fully electric vehicles across eight UK locations. Cars that you may see around include the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Mini E, Smart Electric Drive and Peugeot eExpert. The aim of the venture is to assess the practicalities surrounding the use of electric vehicles on the current UK road network.
On a practical note, while the trial shows a clear commitment on the part of government and the manufacturers, progress is still essential in the development of battery life and the charging infrastructure for fully electric vehicles to become a viable option.
Such practicalities mean that it will take years, maybe decades, for alternatively fuelled vehicles to become mainstream but it is also fair to say that America is the country you would least expect to get behind smaller, greener cars, and they are. With such momentum building, environmental performance sits right at the top of the manufacturers' agenda and electric vehicles look to have a good shot at winning the race to become established as a vehicle of choice in a cleaner world.
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