...and BJ revisits the Insight

Since BJ was kind enough to let me drive the M45, I handed her the keys to the Insight I'm driving this week, which, from the stickers on the door, appears to be a 2003 model. Here's what she had to say: Every time I get in an older vehicle--albeit only two years older--I am instantly reminded how fast the technology in this industry soars forward. The 2003 Honda Insight, a marvel of technology and a champion of causes just a few short years ago now feels archaic by today’s hybrid standards. I applaud the amazing fuel efficiency, but I am aghast at the roughness of the throttle upon start up. The lack of power to effortlessly climb hills along with an inability to carry anything more than two people makes me appreciate the importance of spending vast amounts of research dollars toward the continual evolution of alternative vehicles. Just a scant two years later, in 2005, hybrids such as the Ford Escape or the new Honda Civic don’t require their owners to make compromises for the sake of doing the right thing. Plus they can move and carry, as well as provide guilt-free sleep. Aaron, thanks for the Insight, in more ways than one. -- BJ Killeen