Are cars returning?

Based on the traffic data, yes, cars are returning to the road. And they are returning in new ways, which are the old ways. People are living farther apart and require cars for basic tasks. Concerns about isolation will persist and many will insist on private transportation instead of mass transit. 

So what does this mean? 

For climate change and carbon consumption, perhaps this will bring new electrics on to the road. Rise of solar to power those cars may also change the mix of vehicles. Working from home removes one of the primary reasons for commuting, so perhaps that will offset the increased distance. What we forget is for many work is a social endeavor as much as a functional one. So I do see a return to road congestion. 

So will things be the same or will they be different.  Hard to tell and too soon to tell. But I do know this is human nature is pretty locked in. In the absence of fear people choose easy and what easy is will make the difference for us collectively.