Dear Mr. Storck,

Question:I am a high school senior at New Trier High School in Winnetka, IL and I'm currently attending a five week journalism program at Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. I am writing an article for the program that will appear in my high school paper this fall. The article is about the recent surge in the number of Hummers on the road since the release of the H2. I know that you are a well respected auto writer and I'm sure that you are very busy, but if you would be willing to answer a few questions so that I could quote you in my article I would really appreciate it.

Answer: First, unless it is a breaking story, you need to set more reasonable schedules if you want input from others.

Question:In your opinion... even though the Hummer H2 is much less expensive than the H1, why are so many people willing to spend $50,000 for the giant car?

Answer: First, I'd say that for the same reasons folks are attracted to sport utilities, this represents the top of the heap regarding ruggedness and capability -- at least in its appearance. Second, there is a great deal of prestige driving something most folks can't afford. And finally,

Question: Do you think that such a large car is necesary for any non-military activity?

Answer: Absolutely not. In fact, while most folks justify their SUV as needed to haul, tow or go off road, facts show very few ever are used for those purposes. Besides the image and prestige, too many Americans have been overwhelmed by the fear the media seems so intent on emphasizing in their search for ratings. We have been exposed to concerns about danger from crime, our environment, and our businesses, government, clergy, medical and law enforcement sullied by over emphasis on small percentage of bad examples. One support for this, if we are in such financial distress, how do we afford so many extremely expensive vehicles. The H2 represents a personal cocoon of safety in the midst of all this perceived chaos.

That being said, the original Hummer H1 is remarkably capable, but terribly clumsy, inefficient and uncomfortable. It won't fit in normal parking spaces or garages. The H2 has very well thought out off road capabilities, better than I expected, and while not as capable as an H1 or a Jeep Wrangler, it is far better than just about any other SUVs. Still, the styling creates severe compromises, mainly in access, rear seat room and especially storage.

Question: Did the popularity of the H2 suprise you?

Answer: No, but the extent of the popularity has exceeded my expectations.

Question: What impact will the H2's popularity have on future of the SUV industry?

Answer: Already GM is preparing a smaller H3, also based on present vehicle components, while several companies are showing us concepts that are styled tough instead of sleek.

Question: Would you buy a Hummer?

Answer: If I needed something with the capability, I'd buy a Wrangler for less than half the money. If I needed to haul people or loads safely, I'd get either a minivan or a pickup.

Question: Does the H2 handle well?

Answer: It is surprisingly good, but will not stop or corner as well as sedans, station wagons and minivans. It already has shown to have a more than average accident rate.

The article is due Sunday morning, so if you could respond before then I would really appreciate it. Thank you very much for your time and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Sincerely,

AL