But cars seemed a logical, progressive choice in 1899 because they helped to fulfill common human desires for mobility, space and status. They still do. For that reason, many developing nations are beginning to follow their rich peers down the asphalt path, with enormous consequences to their cities and environment. Also for that reason, attempts to reduce auto use have largely failed. We must alter our notions of mobility.
Many urban planners agree but caution that such fundamental changes typically require generations.
In the meantime, technological advances may offer the most realistic means to take us from here to there faster, more safely and more cleanly. To quell public outcry, rail and trolley lines installed steel cars, electric signals and air brakes. Accident rates fell. And then engineers responded by speeding up. Drivers have shown the same tendency to adjust their behaviors to maintain a steady level of risk.