Well, I think using car is for conveniences purpose. However it may be a thing of necessity when you have family and you need to move from one place to the other.
It becomes luxury when you have expensive one,. in the Western world.
In case of Africa using car is a means of achievement, self esteem self actualisation etc.
Come to fuel whatever the cost people will still use car because its advantages overpower it disadvantages.
However, the environmental issue what can we say about the "molue " in Nigeria or the industrial or Energy waste In America?
Its a little question that requires one million dollar answer. Lol