That is a common meme among right-wing politicians who try to profit from private cars factories; but here in Europe it doesn't fly with the general public, who

That is a common meme among right-wing politicians who try to profit from private cars factories; but here in Europe it doesn't fly with the general public, who know better. Public transport is demonstrably the most cost-efficient method for the daily commute of hundred of thousands people in a city, provided the city itself and transport routes are designed accordingly (which arguably is the main problem in the US). For those sporadic free range transportation needs such as vacations and weekend escapades, car rental and taxi services should typically be enough for for all those who normally have enough travelling by public transport.