Wolfy,
An excellent, informative post that forced me to consider avoiding short trips around town altogether with my new '08. Damn the EPA and the liberal hacks in Congress who have imposed this on us!
Harvey
Hi Harvey,
IMO, there is room for several philosophical perspectives on this.
We human-types have undeniably damaged our nest, by greedy, damn-the-consequences behaviour. When we choose to dance with complete abandon to loud music, for a long time, ... it is reasonable to accept that the piper must be paid.
Many of us agree, but often want someone else to do the paying, and we want payment to be made "someday".
In THIS case, we are picking up some of the check, and "someday" has come.
My rig is quiet, smoke-free, presumably poisons the atmosphere less, and is a delight to drive. It provides all the power I need, when I need it, i. e. , is a capable heavy-hauler... and can't be faulted for not-being an econo-errand car.
I wish it got 100 mpg, and that fuel was the 18 cents per gallon that I am old enough to have seen

We are where we are, along this path of tech-evolution, and all we can do is participate with crossed fingers, or sit things out while progress is made by the more willing.
I am reasonably certain that Cummins will accomplish as much as anyone in dealing with these issues,... I am absolutely certain that I could not do it better.

There are both societal and personal costs to be borne, if we are going to attempt to slow down the deterioration of the environment that we and the following generations will live in.
That being the case, and since I support the goal, I am reluctant to curse those who are attempting to lead the way. And I am disappointed enough in most of my fellow humans to have zero faith that things would be reversed voluntarily.
Best wishes,