Restrictions which limited the number of cars on Beijing roads during the Olympics have been lifted and the city is back to gridlock as usual. Actually many Beijing people - for the most part those who do not own cars - wanted to keep the restrictions in place. Not only did less cars on the road help to improve air quality, noise and congestion were also significantly reduced. The overall improvement in quality of life was noticeable and appreciated. But Beijing's newly affluent middle class drivers are as committed to their cars as Americans are to theirs. And the Chinese government is especially committed to keeping this group of people happy. So unfortunately the restrictions never had a chance.