The "Obama-mobile" will cost more and raise safety concerns!

Like "everything Obama", it sounds good until you get into the details.

Yesterday, Pres BO announced some new mileage rules:

"The new rules would bring new cars and trucks sold in the United States to an average of 35.5 miles per gallon, about 10 mpg more than today's standards.

Passenger cars will be required to get 39 mpg, light trucks 30 mpg.

That means cars and trucks on American roads will have to become smaller, lighter and more efficient." (AP)

Are you ready to give up your van? SUV or whatever car you enjoy driving?

After all, isn't it your money? Shouldn't you'd be free to use your money to buy whatever car you want and pay whatever gasoline price that you can afford.

Again, "everything Obama" comes with a cost:

"The new program will add about $1,300 to the price of producing a vehicle!" (Reuters)

Don't forget that smaller cars are more dangerous:

"Safety could suffer if we boost mileage by making cars smaller...." (USAToday)

Here is a simple question:

Is there anybody in this White House who has ever made a car or worked in the car business?

P.S. Can you think of some good examples of a government running a business? I can't think of any!

JOHN STEELE GORDON is the author of "An Empire of Wealth: The Epic History of American Economic Power" (HarperCollins, 2004).

Today, he wrote Why Government Can't Run a Business:

"The Obama administration is bent on becoming a major player in -- if not taking over entirely -- America's health-care, automobile and banking industries. Before that happens, it might be a good idea to look at the government's track record in running economic enterprises.

It is terrible."