Final answer:
The author was concerned with developing transportation that is environmentally friendly and meshes with current infrastructure, highlighting the necessity of cars in suburbia but also advocating for sustainable practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impact of Suburbia and Automobile Culture on American Lives
The author's purpose in writing “cut back on cars” was to address the issue of environmental sustainability in connection with the design problem of creating a commuter vehicle compatible with existing transportation infrastructure. The emergence of suburbia necessitated the ownership of a car for the daily commute, as families moved farther from the city centers where their workplaces often were.
As a result, cars became central to American life, influencing everything from urban planning to the economy. Furthermore, the reliance on automobiles has significant environmental implications, urging society to consider environmental friendliness in transportation decisions. Issa's example of considering both sides of an argument about mountain biking trails suggests that comprehensive research and understanding multiple perspectives are vital in tackling issues like reducing vehicle usage and promoting sustainable practices.