I agree with you that diesel is a bit more efficient and might decrease imports (or maybe decrease the rate of increase). Really we have nothing to argue about, there. I still don't see how it eliminates OPEC influence, though.

*** If we need less petroleum we don't need to buy OPEC's petroleum. QED

All of the arguements that we have heard around here against conservation, should probably -- in fairness -- be applied to this proposal:

- Huge change of infrastructure!!!!
*** Here's a clue - the US HAS a diesel fuel infrastructure. You really need to read the article and go look at a gas station more closely.

- Limits my freedom to burn what I please, as much as I please!!!
*** How does it do that? Just drive more. :)

- Let the markeplace decide: if people buy diesel (lotta diesel cars available, after all) then it will succeed.

*** But, but, but the environmentalist lobby will not allow the cars to be sold.

-p