Briefing: 1970s

The Arab oil embargo, imposed by OPEC producers in 1973, restricted the supply of oil temporarily and caused prices to rise. The embargo led to new energy policies including a 55 mph speed limit, mandatory fuel-efficiency standards for automobiles, the trans-Alaska oil pipeline, and a national campaign to cut energy use.

Suddenly small cars are in demand - and we don't make any good ones! Assassinations and goverment corruption destroy morale and belief in economy - spending slackens, production slackens, and there is a recession. Wage/Price spirals occur. Japan dominates automobile market - we counter by restricting the number of cars that can be imported.

Computers & robots play more of a role in production.  The 1973 oil embargo also sparked renewed interest in electric-powered vehicles. The Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Research, Development, and Demonstration Act was passed to stimulate research and testing. Subsequently, the 1978 Solar Photovoltaic Research, Development, and Demonstration Act called for the commercialization of photovoltaic technology. (Car Trouble, p. 181.)

The 1970s also saw the beginning of federal "clean air" legislation. The 1977 Clean Air Act Amendments mandated a 96-percent reduction in hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide and a 75-percent reduction in nitrogen oxides from cars (relative to cars with no controls.) (Car Trouble, p. 181.)