Automakers versus utilities: Who deserves the carbon credits?

Who is investing more, utilities or automakers?

Toyota wants the credit.

Since automakers are footing the bill to develop plug-in vehicles, Toyota believes that "potentially valuable emissions credits that California plans to give to utilities for supporting rechargeable cars should go to automakers instead."

The utilities have responded, "in state filings that clean-fuel credits will help them pay for projects needed to service a growing electric-vehicle fleet and prevent increases in customer bills."

Foreign Oil Dependency: THE battle in the fight against global warming?

Could the fight against foreign oil dependency actually unite the people?

Watching a National Geographic show on global warming last night, I realized that I'm becoming anti-global warming activism. Ironically, however, I believe that - minimally - man is having a significant impact on the environment. I also believe that we should be developing technologies, such as hybrid cars, that help reduce carbon footprints.

So, what's my problem? Why am I so troubled by war against global warming? Finish Foreign Oil Dependency: The battle in the fight against global warming.

Fuel efficiency (carbon) tax for gas-guzzlers?

In 2009 it will cost those living in London $48 dollars per day to drive in the city center, if they drive a gas guzzler. While this is a high fee, it is intended to reduce carbon emissions and make consumers responsible for their choices.

While President Bush hasn't been much of an advocate of the carbon trading system, many experts believe such a system is inevitable. Of course this carbon trading system would eventually have an effect on prices that consumers pay, but that price effect would probably be spread out amongst all products. Hence, the price of an economy car might see the same increase as the price of a gas-guzzler.

Would that be fair?

Consequently, would it be a good idea to create a carbon tax for consumers? Owners of SUVs and many other vehicles, such as gas guzzlers, regularly mention freedom of choice. Fine. Still, gas-guzzling does have an impact on the environment that affects even those whom choose not to drive gas-guzzlers to protect the environment.

Is that fair?

Thus, should these gas-guzzlers be forced to pay for their pollution and global warming emissions via a carbon tax or fee, especially when driving in urban areas where congested driving conditions cause the most pollution?

What do you think about a consumer based carbon tax?