Yes, the mining of the required materials is a big issue. Basically we need there to be less cars, but a lot of the world is still trying to catch up with what the rich countries have. Fossil fuel cars have got more efficient, but they have also tended to get bigger. For the average commuter two seats and minimal luggage space would do. I used to commute by motorbike, but that can be dangerous and the bikes are not as efficient as they could be. I fancied the idea of an updated 'micro-car' with decent crash protection. It could be half the weight of a modern small car.
Where we live public transport is limited and we need at least one car. I can get to work by train for now.