Even the Smart Car can get stretched.

Hummers on the lot, dealership bankruptcies, factory closures….it’s no surprise that the
“bigger is better” car culture has become one big headache for America. Our illusions of the Good Life have been dashed by the reality of scarcity, and not a moment too soon.  If everyone aspired to driving a Hummer, we’d be out of oil already.

Forced retrenchment and rethinking of our values and goals is affecting every aspect of our culture, particularly our work life.  Can realigning our priorities help both the environment and our job satisfaction? Where are some new opportunities for a fulfilling transportation career in a downsized economy?

Vehicle Revolution
Lighter, smaller, powered by fuel-efficient systems: the New Vehicle is emerging from the ashes of the Big Three. Lack of corporate foresight along with consumer greed have yielded huge job losses and dealerships packed with unsellable product. But the concommitant shift in energy policy and investment strategy by the U.S. government and private interests will foster development of the nascent alternative-vehicle industry. Job opportunities will grow in:

- R&D: Electrical engineers will be in demand to help design and build electric cars and new hybrid models.

-Sales: new-vehicle sales will be changing, and sales professionals will need to be well-versed in the design, mechanics and operation of alternative-fuel vehicles

-Maintenance: Mechanics for new vehicles are already in demand, and this demand will grow and shift as new vehicle designs and fuels are implemented.

Other options:
High-speed Rail:
President Obama’s commitment to implementing high-speed rail systems in the U.S. will generate jobs in planning, design, product development, construction, finance and other services. And, if implemented with proper funding, it could revolutionize transport in the U.S. to match the efficiency of European and Asian train systems. Let’s get on it!

E-Bikes and LEV’s (Light Electric Vehicles):
Building, repair and sales positions are options as electric bicycles become a more popular transportation choice.

A whole new realm of transport is being developed as Personal Electric Vehicles hit the market.
George Clooney already has one.

References:
New York’s Transportation Alternatives

American Public Transportation Association

EV World: Electric Vehicle news and views