I think future generations will learn from history books about how the auto industry managed to elevate a transportation tool to a desirable status symbol, self

I think future generations will learn from history books about how the auto industry managed to elevate a transportation tool to a desirable status symbol, self-identity proxy, or even a cult for many. I think it's really impressive. What's even more intriguing is that these days, when we know about climate change and pollution, people still don't see cars as tools. When you look at it from the outside, buying 1.5 tons of rusting steel just to transport your ass (that's 2 tons in the US, I guess because of heavier asses?) from point A to point B should not be tied to your perception of self-worth and your social status. And yet. A related thought: I think placing the exhaust in the back and down at the bottom was a master stroke. The driver doesn't see or smell the pollution. I think a very effective measure to make people realize the pollution issues would be to require that the exhaust be placed in front, pointing upwards, and require adding a non-toxic colorant so that you can see the fumes.