Oil surged to a record near $112 a barrel last week. The net effect was a whopping $88 fill-up for my Range Rover! And I’m not alone; big SUVs are prevalent in our area and, although El Dorado Hills’ residents may have a little more pocket change than some in the region, pump prices are definitely affecting local dating habits. Dinner and a movie? I’ll pick you up at eight. But a day-trip to the Bay area? How ‘bout we take your Honda, honey…
I took an informal survey at the pump last week and found a mixed bag; about half the guys filling their SUVs admitted to driving their wives’ or girlfriends’ cars on longer trips. The rest either said they wouldn’t let the price of petrol dictate their driving habits, or that they would have to do “something” if prices didn’t drop soon.
I suspect the majority are in pain. Or denial.