A Console Too Far

Car designs have dramatically changed over the years, from the original purely functional Ford Model-A to a Mercedes SLK with more gadgets and features than the cockpit of a Boeing 737. It seems to me that cars available in the United States are all specifically designed and marketed towards a single occupant.  I understand that most of us are on our own when driving; but wouldn’t it be nice if our cars brought us closer?

Cars are like love, no one forgets their first.  For me it was a 1986 Pontiac 6000 LE with a missing engine mount, and terrible shocks and struts.  The paint was sun damaged too, but none of that mattered to me. The radio worked great and more importantly, I was able to find a girl that was willing to get in it.  Although the car wasn’t much for speed, cornering, gas mileage, or even cargo area, it handled really well at the drive-in.  Why don’t cars come with bench seats anymore?  I feel that in the last 20 years, the design focus went from fraternization to fast food.  They’re making vehicles so wide that even holding hands is uncomfortable.  The only extra-large “cup holders” I want in my car are my hands.  Why is food so much more important than overcoming the social awkwardness accompanied by youth?

Now I understand that none of us like to think of our sons or daughters ever jumping into a “shaggin’ wagon”, but isn’t that better than seeing them have trouble squeezing out of a 3 cylinder Metro alone?  We’re the fattest country on the planet and our sedentary lifestyles are getting worse, starting with our cars.  We need to remember what cars were meant for in the beginning; to get out and see more of the world and to get connected! Not just another couch allowing us to do less. Next time you go out to eat, please get out to eat, and leave the car in the parking lot.

Travis Mai - Hitch Guy

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