How we all forget the oil embargo of 1973, when gasoline prices soared above 50 cents a gallon. The demand from the driving public was for more fuel efficient vehicles. Imports satisfied the consumer that Detroit would not. Eventially Detroit got on the band wagon for more fuel effiecient vehicles too.
In the 90s came the SUVs... and higher fuel consumption.
A barrel of oil more than $70.00 a barrel. Where are the gas prices going to go? Enjoy those SUVs folks.