Sea change: Cars vs Internet

The cultural impact of the automobile on the United States, particularly in the West, cannot be overstated. Privately owned vehicles, a vast road system, and inexpensive gasoline have profoundly shaped the economics, cities, and family patterns of generations of citizens.

A new report, however, might signal a sea change. In Is Digital Revolution Driving Decline in U.S. Car Culture? a decline of automobile use, ownership, and general interest is laid bare. And while the "cause" of the decline is questionable, the trends, if accurate, are fascinating.

Comments

[browse]

I certainly see this in Portland OR. Among the younger demographic, there's a growing desire to move closer to the city center and live car-free, either via bicycles or mass transit. The transition whereby the suburbs are being ceded to lower-income folks is an interesting (and worrying) one.