SUVs and pickup trucks now comprise over 80% of new car sales in the U.S., a trend known as 'car bloat'.

Car bloat has led to safety concerns, higher emissions, and increased roadway damage.

Federal policies like CAFE standards and the Chicken Tax have inadvertently promoted the dominance of larger vehicles.

The rise of electric vehicles might exacerbate car bloat, with current policies overlooking the emissions from production and power sources.

Protectionist measures, including tariffs and tax benefits, favor American-made large vehicles over smaller, more efficient imports.

Regulations tend to protect vehicle occupants at the expense of pedestrians and cyclists, incentivizing bigger cars.

American carmakers' influence and profitability hinder policy changes, despite the negative societal impacts of car bloat.

State and local initiatives exist, but meaningful reform requires Congressional, NHTSA, and EPA action to reverse market distortions.