Two months ago I wrote a post about my family’s decision to buy a new car. After 11 and a half years, my 1998 Honda Accord did not meet the needs of my growing family or the insane weather (i.e. snowstorms in late April and May) of the Front Range in Colorado. The debate raged on for months as to whether we should buy a hybrid, namely a Prius, or not. We live across the street from my wife’s job and seven blocks to the bus stop that takes me directly to mine. In addition, we live on the outskirts of downtown, with easy access to public transportation routes to our respective campuses for graduate school classes.

With all of this in mind, we followed my sister’s sage advice (not the first time and I’m sure it won’t be the last). She and her husband bought a 4-wheel drive vehicle after their son was born and a year later when her 12 year old car gave out, they bought a used Prius. Our plan is similar, we bought a 4-wheel drive vehicle now and if we absolutely need a second car, which I truly hope does not come to pass, we are banking on the technology improving to the point where either plug-in hybrids or electric cars are economically viable.

Although it is a small sample size (and we currently still have our 12 year old sedan), we have driven less than 100 miles – including the 14 from the dealership to home – in the first two weeks of ownership. Walking to the farmer’s market this past Sunday was far more effective for the task at hand. Not only did I get to enjoy another beautiful Colorado day, but I got some exercise, supported my local economy, ate fantastic food, and did not need to travel very far. It is this last point perhaps that is the most important. For tasks that do not require a car, there is no need to use one.

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