Of course that’s what I mean. No, I’m just kidding…but seriously.

In case you haven’t been keeping track of the tire industry recently (I mean who wouldn’t, right?), there has been some recent news that will certainly make people long for the good ol’ days of tires. Back when it was easy, when it was pure. Back when changing tires was quick and cheap.

Rocks: easy, pure, and absolutely everywhere

Due to the increased cost of petroleum products and materials, major tire manufacturers are raising prices between 6 and 8%, and with high labor costs tires are already pretty pricey. Now this? It’s like these tires are made of diamonds or something.

Ohhh...I get it now

My whole point is that fuel is not the only thing getting more expensive. Tires are jumping up almost 10% in price. Materials just to make the cars are increasing, especially since America imports most of its materials now more than ever. As emissions and fuel economy standards continue to increase, adding pressure to the automaker and in turn a higher price to the car, buying and maintaining a vehicle will become an expensive undertaking.

What people seem to fail to realize is the wide range of money saving opportunities alternative fuels offer. Propane AutoGas is cleaner and safer than gasoline or diesel. There are tax breaks, incentives and grants to help with the purchase of a conversion. And propane is cheaper. It costs less than gas or diesel. It burns cleaner and more fully, which can save thousands in the long run on engine and oil maintenance and can extend the life of the vehicle far beyond what it would be just using traditional fuels. Lastly, the AutoGas system can be easily transferred to another vehicle, meaning you don’t have to buy one for every new vehicle you purchase. Basically, if you manage or are part of a vehicle fleet, this is a sure win. Just like when Fred Flintstone twinkles his toes at a bowling tournament-Victory.

Pretty pitiful, huh? Double! Where were we? America loves double. What do they know that we don’t? Could it be all of the benefits of simple, clean and cheap propane? Probably. This is why fleets are so important. Many of these numbers are due directly to fleets. Japan, although not included on the chart, requires all taxis to run on propane. These countries, like the U.S., have many credits and initiatives pushing alternative fuels and it’s working. Fleets will have the easiest experience switching and the most to gain.

The more people that use it, the more benefits there will be when the government sees it is working. Then we can continue to drive our cars free from high prices, pollution and dependence on foreign oil.