A useless attempt, but what the heck...

[David Head]

Here is the gist of the email I sent to the VP and Decretary of Commerce
tonight...

There are luxury and near luxury cars selling in europe that get 40-55
mpg. They are clean, efficient and safe. Those same cars are available
in the US - only without the engines that allow them these great
numbers. I am talking about the Turbo Diesel engines manufactured by
Audi - the 2.5 and the 3.3TDI in the A6 and A8. They don't smoke or emit
horrible pollutants and make more usable power and torque than
comparably sized engines. They meet Germany's tough TUV standards -
arguably more strict than our own.
To encourage Audi and other manufacturers to bring these engines to our
shores, I would recommend a waiver of NHTSA crash rules for existing
imports that are willing to offer optional engines in the US that will
exceed 40 mpg. A short term tax credit for cars that exceed 45-50 mpg
would help get the ball rolling.
I would buy one of these cars in a heartbeat were it offered here. There
are plenty of others like me...

Dave Head
EMCM(SW) Ret
Oviedo, FL