XFire1,
I agree that they are really too small for general purpose here in the US. I get to travel to Europe, mostly France, a bit and, as you said, they're everywhere. However, you don't see them on the highways much (maybe I just missed seeing them). But they are great for city/town driving.

Can you imagine an accident with a '70s caddy and one of those things? it wouldn't be pretty. I would own one if I lived in London or Paris, but no where, not even NYC...we drive fairly rough here.