European cars seem to have it all over American cars, in many different ways. For example, diesel engines over here are much more fuel efficient than in the States. Amazing, though few will realize it, gas is more expensive over here than in the States, even if it climbs to $5/gallon at home, it will be more expensive here. So, it is nice that the technology is used in fuel efficient engines, both for diesel and gas. Also, they aren't driving huge vehicles around. Our Prius is an average size car here, there are actually some parking places where it's a tight fit. Especially, if we're going to park in a garage, the mirrors are going to have to come in and we're probably going to have dings on the doors.
Those are good things, very good things, but my favorite necessity on the European car is the fog light. They are mandatory and we're way behind in getting ours installed. The fog light is, on most cars, installed along with the rear break lights. It's just a single light, and it quite bright, it would be like having one break light on. It might seem strange, but with all the fog here, it's quite nice to have. The light cuts through the fog for people coming up on your rear. And when you're cruising along at 150KMH +, it's nice to be seen through the fog. (No, we don't drive that fast.....generally) We're looking to get the light installed into the bumper so it looks more natural instead of the way most Americans get in installed, hanging under the bumper. Why is it that this handy safety item isn't a necessary part of all cars made. Toyotas sold in Europe have them, Fords sold in Europe have them, Porsches, Volvos, VWs, I could go on all have them installed in their European versions.
When we bring out little Prius back to the States, if it lives through the Priority to the Right laws and crazy drivers, I'll be more than happy to use my little fog light.
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