I'm surprised Apple isn't teaming up with Audi, since their design most closely matches Apple's design philosophy (in my opinion.)
In terms of transportation, the car is convenient, and nothing more. It's a convenience item and the US is built around it. In many countries (especially Europe) many cities offer amazing mass transit (subway, tramway, bus) systems that make the care a PITA. Example: With the subway, you can go into the city, not worry about parking, making it not only cheaper but giving you more flexibility. You can walk two miles one way and then use public transportation to get back home. With a car, you have to go back because you parked your car somewhere. Affordability is also a thing. Americans think they need it (which in the case of the US is correct). Once you need something, you loose judgement because the price doesn't really matter that much. It becomes like the price of electricity or a microwave. Not relevant because life without it is no fun. However, as soon as you have a choice to either take the subway, for example, or drive the car, the car becomes relatively more expansive. You really have to make an argument why you need it. In many European cities, most people still have a car, but they realize this is a convince and luxury and therefore don't complain about how expansive it is. But in many places, it is a luxury.
In terms of a car being the "symbol of freedom for the male species" is complete BS. This is exactly what car manufacturers want you to believe. Ever look at Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jeep, Dodge, Ford, Chevrolet ads? They all try to tell you that if you want to masculine, you NEED this. They'll play some cool rock music and label their car "charger" "challenger" avenger" "magnum" "liberty" "patriot". I would say this is part of the evolution of man. Europe is past this and has more important things to worry about than driving a car. There's more to life than driving. And people wo think they're cool behind the wheel rarely are.
