Both the oil and auto industry have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo, thus no incentive to change their current business models.

It is not the lack of intellect and brain power which has slowed the transition from pushrod engines to hybrid engine technology, but the lack of will, drive and purpose.

Would Ford and GM be in the predictament they are in had they chosen the path of Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Daimler Chrysler?

Instead of being overtaken by the tidal wave of change, the industry should be part of those making the waves. The Japanese auto industry chose to spend profits on R&D in lieu of large executive pay packages for lackluster performance.

So why should the consumer be forced to pay more at the pump for the lack of vision and selfish interests of a handful of CEOs and their board of directors?