A hundred years ago, Americans could use typewriters, the telegraph and primitive telephones. Today, Americans have computers, the Internet, cell phones, satellite television and radio, DVDs, iPods, email and instant messaging.

A hundred years ago, Americans could have personal vehicles powered by internal combustion engines running on gasoline. Today, Americans can have personal vehicles powered by internal combustion engines running on gasoline.

You see the problem?

My Scripps Howard column argues that it is both urgent — and feasible — to create a competitive market in automotive fuels. (Bottom line: Build the Flexible Fuel Vehicles — the alternative fuels will come.)