But this was no pickup truck down at the ranch. President Bush's vehicle of choice at this tiny island summit looked like a high-tech, souped-up, electric-powered golf cart.
With most event sites just a few blocks apart, Bush drove Blair to the opening business session of the Group of Eight economic summit on Wednesday in one ? emblazoned with the red, white and blue colors of the American flag.
The day before, German Chancellor Gehard Schroeder powered himself to a meeting with Bush, waving at a cluster of reporters as he glided past.
Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi made sharp zigs and zags on his cart before bringing it to an abrupt stop.
The snazzy vehicles, capable of reaching a speed of about 30 mph, are decorated with each country's official colors.
The cars, manufactured by a subsidiary of DaimlerChrysler, can be purchased ? absent the flag colors. Bush's four-seater lists for $8,995.
So popular are the vehicles with heads of state and their top aides that sometimes they're in short supply.
"I had to walk over here. I couldn't find mine," Bush's communications director, Dan Bartlett, told reporters at a press center.
Last edited:
