They’re
rugged, imposing, invincible ... well at least that’s what the commercials say.
It seems, however, that the message is definitely reaching and affecting consumers.
The sport utility vehicle (SUV) craze has undeniably taken hold in this country
and around the world. They make us feel rugged, imposing, invincible and we like
it that way.
What sleek and speedy sports cars did for 1970s and 1980s teen-agers, SUVs are
doing for the same individuals who are now just a bit older and more sophisticated.
Now they’re looking for a vehicle that will give them thrills, yet can also haul
the kids to and from school, fit a week’s load of groceries and transport that
darling sleeper sofa they just have to have. Yet what draws people to these large
vehicles, which are often difficult to park, may guzzle gas and can take a chunk
of your paycheck each month?
Sport utility beginnings
The concept of the SUV actually originated in the 1930s from the U.S. Army’s need
of an all-terrain, rugged vehicle that could withstand the rigors of war. Some
of the requirements specified were four-wheel drive, minimum standards for engine
power, cross country performance and grade climbing ability.
The first batch of four-wheel drive light military cars was built by the Bantam
Car Company of Pennsylvania, USA. The cars were called GPs (General Purpose Vehicles)
and came to be known worldwide as 'Jeeps.' The contract for manufacturing the
vehicles, however, was awarded to Willys Overland. By the end of the war 635,000
vehicles were built and the Jeep name was officially registered by Willys. The
first civilian jeep (CJ) was built in 1945.
In the 1970s a number of companies introduced smaller versions of four-wheel drive
pickups which offered a lot more features than the Jeep, called light trucks.
Since the 1980s, that category has grown dramatically to include and mostly be
known as SUVs.
Are they safe?
While SUVs are very popular, are they generally safe to drive on the country’s
highways and city streets? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,
some SUVs do have a propensity to roll over during accidents, which could increase
the likelihood of occupant ejection or injury. Yet, as with all driving-related
accidents, what the driver does behind the wheel is just as important as the engineering
of the vehicle.
Macho and rugged image
While it is true that many men are attracted to the SUV for its macho appeal,
women too like the image presented by the SUV. However, just because the vehicle
helps you feel invincible, doesn’t mean you should drive like you own the road.
A vehicle of this stature and weight can do great damage to lighter, smaller cars
sharing the roadway. And remember, no SUV driver is impervious to injury no matter
how large the vehicle.
