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At a resident Freeper French car owner, I have an opinion about this.

One. Cold starts are what kills an engine. I doubt this engages when the engine has not been brought up to operating temperature.

Two. Old idea. The 99 Prius does this. In addition to it's electric motors. Proven technology.

Three - love the way people give BMWs, Mercedes and Chryslers a pass on the "bad guy" list. Schroeder is worse than Chriac - if that's even possible.

There are sizable French population that supports and loves America. They produce things. They work.

I was reading in the Economist about the recent mergers in the past decade. From Mercedes/Chrysler to BMW/Rover, etc. The one that is held up as the gold standard is the Renault/Nissan match-up. They did an awesome job with Nissan and saved that company.

Although I enthusiastically deride Chirac, I don't forget the Germans and I don't pick on friendly demographics/industries.

[Michael.SF.]

There are sizable French population that supports and loves America.

*** Yes, and there is also a sizable Muslim population that supports and loves America. Problem is they are both so damned silent about it.

*** My thoughts on European cars:

-- Never buy an Italian car, unless your a mechanic.
-- Once you buy a SAAB, you will own it for life.
-- Never buy a French car, unless you live in France.
-- Never buy a British car, never.
-- If you can afford a BMW, buy a Mercedes.

;)