Is there another term for commuting (or any form of utility cycling for that matter) that is more appealing to the un-informed?

I don't know if it is just me, but in the age of the car in lots of countries around the world, cycling is seen as recreational or competitive activity, and the commuting and utility aspects are overlooked.

I am guessing this is because people see commuting as a chore, and want to get to work and back home again as quickly as possible, in their warm dry cars with radio and cd etc.... I am guilty of this myself to some extent, although cycling to work takes me 10 minutes more than driving and in rush hour probably 10 minutes less.

Similarly, I think a lot of people don't relish the idea of hauling their shopping or kids around on a bike - again partly due to the call of the car.

Some of it also has to do with the perception of others and the infrastructure.

but is there a nicer name for these practices that would appeal to others.