So when we look at the
entire picture, there are compelling reasons for today’s rapid development of
new transportation technologies. One doesn’t have to subscribe to the Malthusian
meltdown theory in order to appreciate the challenges. Ultimately, the justification comes
down to the task of insuring stability, predictability, and sustainability over the long
haul. It’s in our own interests to create a more energy efficient and sustainable
system. And I think it even makes sense in terms of corporate profits.
Lots of brilliant people are at work with good ideas and new approaches on
how to solve the world’s transportation challenges. The vehicles you see on display
in the Different Roads exhibit are just the tip of the iceberg. And there’s a
sense of adventure coming from everyone involved in this search for a new paradigm for
personal transportation.
And on a personal level, I’m often struck by how this planet of ours has provided
a cheap easy-to-use resource when we needed it to make the transition into the age of
technology. It would have been very difficult if petroleum hadn’t sort of shoot out
of the ground and landed in our laps. But my sense of it is that the earth hasn’t
given us enough of it to let us totally burn our house down. Instead, it’s demanding
greater excellence in the way we do things, and at a time when we’re able to meet the
challenge.
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