With Presidential candidates in full campaign mode, gas prices continuing to hit record highs, and the stock market suffering a series of hits, the American people are looking for economic relief.  Consensus seems to be that lower gas prices will keep more money in the pockets of American consumers, providing more fuel instead for the ailing economy. 

Republican candidate John McCain has suggested taking advantage of newer, more environmentally friendly drilling technologies to tap known crude reserves the United States has offshore and in protected wilderness areas. Democrat Barack Obama, meanwhile, has advocated for massive investments in the green sector to promote new energy sources and greater use of biofuels.

But a far simpler solution may be lurking right under our noses—producing more of our existing, fuel-effecient cars. If the average car in the US auto fleet managed 35 miles per gallon—currently achieved by many domestic models—the reduction in need for gas would result in a relative gas costs of over a dollar per gallon less.

Kinda makes you want to buy a Geo, doesn’t it?